being vs. doing

Even though I claim to mostly embrace Taoist thinking, I am still drawn to the peace I find in the Buddha sculpture. I have a small sculpture in my entryway, and whenever I see it, I feel peace. I know, of course, that this sculpture arose from ancient Buddhism, but it still embraces so many Taoist ideas. The Buddha's topknot symbolizes wisdom, enlightenment, and spiritual energy. His empty earlobes show his renunciation of worldliness. His complete stillness yet calm, serene expression remind us of the peace and satisfaction that come from living a quiet, reflective life. I think these are all ideas found in Taoism and peace and stillness are at the heart of Taoism. In Chapter 16 we read . . .

Empty yourself of everything. Let the mind become still . . . .

The ten thousand things rise and all while the Self watches their return.

I find myself often worried about things. Will I get this completed on time? Am I living the life I want to be living? Am I a good mother? Am I doing the right thing with my finances? And on and on. I feel the opposite of peace.

But on this rainy February day, as I think about all the things I COULD get done, I will choose peace. I will choose to do nothing. I will accept that my value in life is not dependent on productivity. I will remember that what is essential is invisible, quiet, and still. It is not found while I am busy doing things that seem to be important. It is found by sitting and doing nothing, perhaps just noticing how the light gently falls on the leaves in the trees or how the wind barely rustles the dried grass on the pampas plants. Life is not found in getting everything done, achieving goals, amassing wealth. Life is found in embracing the quiet moment right in front of you.