Enemy vs. Opponent

| The Tao Chapter 69 – My Second Interpretation |

To label your enemy as your enemy is to already admit defeat.

To label him as your enemy is to say he is evil. Once that is done, it is difficult to model compassion and humility. It also increases the need to clasp and control for victory.

Better for him to be called an opponent. When two are opposed it is easier to allow flow. When flow is allowed, it is easier to demonstrate compassion and humility.

When you embody compassion and humility while yielding to life’s flow, you win.

LIVING THE TAO: Today, think of someone you consider an enemy. What does the thought of that person make you feel? Then think of someone you have a disagreement with, but is not an enemy. What does the thought of that person make you feel? Finally ask, how in your heart not just your mind, might you change to viewing the first person as an opponent, rather than an enemy?

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.