Lead Not Force

| The Tao Chapter 81 – My Second Interpretation|

Words spoken with a sweet tongue aren’t necessarily sincere. And words that are direct, though they cut through the core, may show the most care.

Guidance does not force. It only shows a way. Likewise, guidance may not sound like honey, but could instead cut through your core.

Because the wise does not attach herself to the outcome, she is free to offer wisdom without expectations. She is free to guide without forcing and in this way, she leads.

The wise leader is like life’s flow—she offers guidance with care, but does not control.

LIVING THE TAO: Today, consider a project you are involved in and ponder, “Am I attached to the outcome?” In other words, would you be hurt if it didn’t work out the way you like? If so, consider how you can do your best work and simply allow the outcome to be what it will be.

My 2018 focus is to intentionally live the Tao Te Ching. This is my second reading of Stephen Mitchell’s translation. I share my daily interpretations hoping to inspire you to do the same.

Embrace your journey. Experience bliss. Live the Tao.