Wu-Wei

Wu-Wei (or Action-less Action) is a central principle in the Eastern Philosophy of Daoism. Wu-Wei affirms that one should live spontaneously, and in harmony with the natural flow of the Cosmos (or Dao). According to Daoism, human happiness occurs when one successfully detects and aligns themselves with the Universe (New World Encyclopaedia, Aug 2008). Therefore, gaining an awareness of life’s essential Unity is one key to happiness.

A helpful metaphor to understanding Wu-Wei is water; in being mindful of the inherent value of every person, their connection to us (Kardash, 1998) and the environment we become aware of Wu-Wei or the Eternal Universe and akin to water, salubrious to each other, the environment and ourselves.

In essence, life constitutes an organic, interconnected whole, which undergoes constant transformation (Kardash, 1998). Wu-Wei, therefore, is vigilance of oneself and of ones surroundings; it is action without intent (Loy, 1985). To me, the key is to be as water, formless, yet adaptive. Align yourself with the Universe. Act naturally, become insurmountable.

In accordance to Seng-T’san as cited by Master Lee (2002), p.51

"The Great Way, is not so difficult

For those who have no preferences.

When love and hate are both absent.

Everything becomes clear and undistinguished.

Make the smallest distinction however

And heaven and Earth are set infinitely apart."

This brings me to my next planned entry: Balance.

Kudos