Happiness and Cycles

Taoism, happiness and cycles

Life is a series of natural and spontaneous changes. Don’t resist them – that only creates sorrow. Let reality be reality. Let things flow naturally forward in whatever way they like.  ~ Lao Tzu

Taoist philosophy says that the wise never get too excited when things go really well, they understand that nothing is forever and so even at the zenith of happiness, they prepare for sadness.  These cycles even exist for happiness.  This may seem unfortunate, that at the happiest point that you should prepare for sadness.  However the perspective has a better look when you consider the flipside.  The wise also understand that bad times likewise are not permanent, so even at your saddest, at your worst; you should begin preparing to be your best and happiest self.

Philosophy is a wonderful thing, an intellectual exercise that is fun to play with, however the only philosophy worth anything is that philosophy which can truly improve our lives or expand our minds.  I’m writing tonight because it has been this very philosophy I’ve been dealing with lately.  Things haven’t been so good for the last couple of weeks, a good friend of mine seems to have disappeared from my life, another friend was diagnosed with breast cancer, work has seemed a bit more pointless than usual and the plans I have to improve things have seemed further away then they usually do.

But in reading my daily meditations I came across the idea I discussed above and I was patient.  Not passive, I did what I always do when things go south and my mood starts to dip.  First, the essentials, good food, exercise and get enough sleep.  Then of course preparing for things to get better.  For the last three weeks things have seemed pretty dismal, but in the span of a few days things have turned.  My friends illness may not be as bad as previously thought, she’s recovering well from her surgery.  Some opportunities have presented themselves and my plans again don’t feel so far away or as unachievable as they once did.  Even at their worst, things will get better these are the cycles of happiness.  Remember this and remember to have a happy day my friends.  ~ Rev Kane

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