Pride

Finally, some good news. I haven't shared all the bad news that's been going on around here, lest I sound like I'm wallowing in a cesspool of negativity. But, there was finally something good that happened today, and I'd love to share. You'll be the first to know!

As you know, I'm taking a World Religion course. I wrote a paper on two chapters in a book (as per the assignment), along with a cover sheet and glossary (again, as per the assignment). The paper was to be minimum 25 (numbered) sentences (yes, really), based on the book, out of 100 pts. etc., etc., etc. You get the point.

I didn't give much thought to this paper, and was actually disappointed in it because I didn't THROW myself into it like I usually do. In fact, I finished the paper saying something along the lines of "There's more to be said, but I don't really want to write more". Frankly, I was tired, not in the mood for the assignment, and I threw it together the day it was due.

Anyway, I got my paper back today, and I not only got 110/100 (bonus for being awesome!), she asked if she could copy my paper to use for the sample paper in her class. This means my paper was PERFECT!

This whole Wu Wei thing is proving to be true! Wu Wei is the Taoism way of "Work without working", or "Do without doing". The time I spent not stressing, not working too much, not giving it my ALL, proved to be my "best" work. If I had done nothing, it would have been non-existant, had I given it my all, it would have been good, but not good enough. By letting things flow, and taking it easy, I've accomplished great work.

And now I must work on not bragging...or complaining.

From Chapter 43 of the Tao Te Ching:

Hence I know the value of non-action.
Teaching without words and
work without doing
Are understood by very few.

(From Chapter 3, a different version than the one I am reading:

Practice not-doing
and everything will fall into place.


From Chapter 7 of the Tao Te Ching:

Therefore the wise embrace the one
And set an example to all.
Not putting on a display,
They shine forth.
Not justifying themselves,
They are distinguished.
Not boasting,
They receive recognition.
Not bragging,
They never falter.