 8 May 2010 @ 20:23
LIMITS
Every river has its banks,
Every ocean has its shores.
Constant expansion is not possible. Everything reaches its limits
and the wise always try to identify these limits. In the environment,
they do not willfully expand civilization at the expense of natural
wilderness. In economics, they do not spend beyond the market. In
personal relationships, they do not demand more than others can fairly
give. In exercise, they do not strain beyond their capacities. In
health, they do not go beyond the limits of their age. With such
attitudes, the wise can even exploit what others think to be barriers.
When one senses that one has come to the limits of the time and
situation, one should conserve one's energy. Often, this will be in
preparation for a challenge to the limits, or a changing over to a new
set of constraints. Whenever one comes upon the circumference, it is
best to consider carefully and marshal one's resources before crossing
the line. There is always uncertainty, and we must be wary.
We can also utilize limits for our own purposes. We can trap someone
because we know of the limits ahead. Defense is possible by utilizing
given limits, as a wall protects our backs in a fight. Work is easier
when we know that we will be working for a limited time. We can take
advantage of opportunities because we know that they are only there for
the moment. Limitations should not always be seen as negative
constraints. They are the geography of our situation, and it is only
right to take advantage of this.
365 Tao: Daily Meditations
Deng Ming-Dao
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