The Great Dao:

The essence of the Great Dao (or Tao) flows effortlessly everywhere, nourishing and sustaining all things without asserting control over them. When you accomplish great things, it is the Dao that does so through you, yet it claims no merit for these accomplishments. This profound principle teaches that relinquishing power and trusting others can make you more powerful in an unexpected way.

By delegating tasks and trusting others, you can rest peacefully, knowing that things will be taken care of. Just as you can trust your nervous system to wake you up in the morning, you can trust others to carry on the work for you. This principle of unity and oneness with the universe is achieved not by trying to control it but by trusting it as you would trust another person.

When you trust the universe, you are also trusting yourself, for there is no true separation between you and the rest of existence. Decisions may seem daunting because of the infinite data and variables to consider, but often, they emerge naturally, like hiccups. The key is to act with faith and let go of the anxiety of overthinking.

Consider the story of a farmer who hired an exceptionally efficient worker. This worker excelled at tasks like sawing logs and mending fences but quit when asked to sort potatoes into three categories. The constant decision-making overwhelmed him, demonstrating that overthinking decisions can lead to exhaustion.

Trusting in the Dao means embracing the flow of life and the natural order of things. Great leaders and successful individuals understand this principle. They delegate authority and trust others, creating harmonious and thriving environments. This approach aligns with the fundamental structure of living organisms, where delegation and trust enable growth and success.

To become one with the universe, you must let go of the need to control everything. Embrace the principle of trusting others and the world around you. This doesn't mean you won't make mistakes or take risks, but it aligns you with the natural course of evolution, where constant delegation of authority is key.

Democracy, for example, operates on the principle of synergy, where the intelligence of a complex system exceeds that of its individual members. This synergy reflects the Dao's flow, where everything works together harmoniously.

The story of the Kon-Tiki expedition illustrates this beautifully. When the explorers set sail on a balsawood raft, they encountered numerous unexpected factors that worked in their favor, demonstrating how trust and faith in the natural flow can lead to successful outcomes.

In essence, the more you let go and trust the universe, the more you realize the inseparable identity of self and other. Trying to control and dominate only creates separation and conflict. Instead, embrace the paradox of relinquishing control to gain true power and unity with the Dao.

By understanding and practicing this principle, you can navigate life with greater ease and harmony. Trust the flow of the Dao, and you will find that everything falls into place naturally. Embrace the wisdom of letting go, and you will discover the profound power that comes from unity with the universe.

Peace and Abundance

Dr. Abundant