There is a theme that runs throughout the Tao Te
Ching and it is to Be Like Water. This is a potent
metaphor that I have been reflecting on recently.
There are many incredible attributes of water, but
there are two in particular that I want to highlight
for helping you live a peaceful and joyous life.
1.) Water can never be hurt, damaged, or destroyed.
That’s right – you can freeze it, boil it, or vaporize
it, and it still perfectly fine.
It’s still water.
It really doesn’t matter what happens to it. Water
cannot be grasped, it cannot be held. It cannot be
hurt by the environment because it simply shapes
itself accordingly and continues on its wondrous
journey.
Which leads me to my next point:
2.) Water shapes itself to its environment, but
it always gets to where it is going.
Water always gets to where it is going. You are
probably familiar with the water cycle from
Geology 101. Water is present in the ocean. It
then gets absorbed into the clouds as moisture.
The clouds then move over the land and it rains or
snows. The water then eventually makes its way
back to the ocean.
Sounds simple, right?
Well, as you know, water can take an infinite
number of detours as it makes its way back to
the ocean. It can remain frozen in a glacier for
eons. It can end up in a dam.
It can flow its way through endless streams and
tributaries. It can end up buried in the ground.
But eventually it always makes its way back to
the ocean. And then it always makes its way back
to the clouds and falls down as rain.
Can you let yourself be like water?
Instead of holding yourself in opposition to the
world, your life, and what is happening, can you
think of this metaphor of water? Can you let yourself
flow with what is, knowing that you will always
end up where you want to go?
If you are experiencing turbulent times, trust that
the greater part of you has the power to heal, to
nourish, and to sustain you. And trust that this
same part of you will keep you on track, no matter
how many detours you seem to be taking.
The spiritual part of ourselves is always on
purpose, gently helping you become the greatness
that you are.
Be like water and become attuned to the endless
flow of wisdom and insight within yourself.
When you do, all of life will take on a whole
new meaning.
Sarah Maria is a body-image expert and personal empowerment specialist who helps people love their bodies no matter how they look. She leads workshops internationally and works one-on-one in consulting sessions to assist people in overcoming hatred and dissatisfaction with their bodies using holistic healing and spiritual principles. She’s a certified meditation teacher, Yoga instructor, and Ayurvedic Lifestyle Counselor. Contact her at sarah@breakfreebeauty.com