We found this disintegrating bridge over the little stream that runs through the Taosurfer Ranch. Surrounding land is up high, and cost more, but doesn’t have enjoy year round water. Sometimes we find riches in humility.

8.

To discover the greatest good

flow like water.

Water pours life into all creatures

without striving.

It pools in places men disdain.

This is how

it’s like the Tao.

So make your home in low places.

Draw from the deep well of the heart.

Offer kindness to others.

Let your words be sincere.

Govern justly.

Let your work be your art.

Remain present

with everyone

you encounter.

Live without striving

and people won’t try

to pull you down.

The concept of water and its flow to the depths, its power over time, and its ability to bring even great buildings back down to earth, makes water a perfect metaphor for understanding the flow of the Tao. That said, a few introductory points are worth noting.

First, this chapter talks about the greatest good, what Roman philosophers called the summum bonum. Here in the Tao Te Ching, does this mean the highest macho achievement? The greatest riches and rewards forme? The best outcome for a nation, despite the sufferings of individuals? No. It’s about finding life, abundance and joy for you and for others: it’s the greatest good for the whole earth.

How is this done? Through the deep well of the heart.

In our world, wells are sources of water. Water nourishes things without being destroyed. It becomes part of our blood, or a plant’s cells. It becomes the cleansing little streams that form on rainy nights in a dirty city. It flows from us both as tears of sadness and as tears of joy. Our loving hearts can offer the same sort of blessings for the world around us. They can bring life to others without becoming obliterated in the process. They can become a humble but precious source of life.

In practical terms, this chapter teaches us to let go of striving, be receptive to natural gifts, and let go of the fear of being pulled down by others. When we speak truth without disdain and compassionately ignore people’s misjudgments of us, we will find that we shed anxieties created by those who envy our successes. So, go ahead and tell those who want to tear you down: “Thank you. Down is exactly where I was headed. That’s also where I’ll receive you. The deep well is where the life starts, after all. Dive in with me. The water’s fine.”

And here’s this…

Make Your Home in Low Places (Tao Te Ching 8)