Taoism and the River of Life

By AndreaPhilosophy

Photo by Sharon Mauer

Sedona is famous for spectacular scenery and the natural beauty that inspires a sense of awe and reverence. But the favorite spot for many locals and visitors alike is not up high, but down low. People love to be near the waterway that carved through the Mogollon Rim to reveal Sedona’s fascinating red rock formations. A walk along Oak Creek reminds us of the ever-changing way of nature, and of how being adaptable, like water, can help us live in harmony with the world.

While we get many cultural signals that tell us how to achieve stability and certainty, the truth is that our lives are in a constant state of flux, because the world is in a constant state of flux.

Oak Creek has a gentle way of reminding us that being fluid, like water, can lead to peace and happiness. Watching the water move downstream illustrates the value and the beauty of responsiveness and adaptability. We adapt to new circumstances, because there always are new circumstances.

The creek is like life.

It doesn’t wait for anything.

It keeps on moving.

Just like life, there are boulders and obstructions

challenges to work around

and obstacles to overcome

The water stays the course and makes its way downstream,

with determination

and graceful maneuvers

It accomplishes its task.

The fact that it is good to be like water is so obvious that it is reflected in ordinary language. Go with the flow.

For those who practice non-action, everything will fall into place.
 – Tao Te Ching,  Verse 3

Going with the flow, or adaptability, also teaches us patience. Over time, water accomplishes what it sets out to do. 

We can overcome the hardest things in the world by practicing the strategies of adaptability and persistence that Oak Creek so beautifully demonstrates day after day. 

Adaptability doesn’t mean giving up. Water never gives up. 

Because water is adaptable, water always finds a way. It carves through stone.

The soft overcomes the hard.
– Tao Te Ching,  Verse 36

Beautiful natural settings are the perfect place to reflect on great ideas and make them relevant to daily life. Sedona Philosophy curates completely unique opportunities to learn about the world and yourself. 

Join us for an immersive walking tour in Sedona, or for a once-in-a lifetime tour to the Grand Canyon in our Tesla Model Y. Hope to see you soon!

Andrea
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