The day you embrace Taoism and become ordained is a momentous occasion, filled with promise and growth. It signifies a beautiful commitment to surrendering your life to the Tao and allowing it to care for you. As you embark on this journey, remember that the Tao will always guide and support you. Trust, faith, and determination are the pillars that will fortify your bond with the Tao, enabling you to overcome any hurdles that come your way.
In Taoism, we follow certain rules and principles, such as the five virtues and the ten commandments. These guidelines may appear simple at first, resonating with our innate sense of righteousness and making perfect sense in the context of the Tao. However, as you delve deeper into your Taoist practice, you may encounter challenges that test your strength and resolve.
Within us, we possess three souls: the neutral, negative, and positive souls. Each soul category plays a vital role in our lives. The neutral soul helps us stay focused and alive, the negative soul fuels our ability to think and ponder, and the positive soul empowers us to take action. And when we become Taoists, our Tao Soul, the 道魂, is born—a sacred life force that resides within us. It is crucial to nurture and strengthen this Tao Soul so that when challenges arise, we remain steadfast and resilient.
But how do we know if our Tao Soul is in need of healing? The answer lies in observing three factors related to our Taoist journey, comparing our current state to when we were thriving or newly ordained.
Firstly, consider your focus and direction as a Taoist. Do you experience clarity and a deep sense of purpose in your Taoist path? Remember, I am not referring to thoughts of giving up but rather to the passion and enthusiasm that drive you as a Taoist. If you find yourself lacking in these areas, it might indicate a decline in the neutral energy of your Tao Soul. Embracing Taoism should bring you joy, fulfillment, and a strong desire to continue on your chosen path.
Secondly, reflect on the negative side—your thirst for knowledge and learning. Do you still feel a genuine desire to absorb Taoist teachings and wisdom? A healthy Taoist embraces learning and is delighted by the vast wealth of knowledge available. If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or disinterested, it might be a sign that the negative energy of your Tao Soul needs reinvigoration. Remember, every new piece of knowledge is an opportunity for growth and enrichment.
Lastly, consider the positive side—your commitment to Taoist practices and rituals. Taoists engage in ceremonies, attend classes, and perform daily rituals at the altar. If you suddenly feel an aversion or reluctance to participate in these activities, viewing them as burdensome or exhausting, it may indicate that your Tao Soul requires healing. Remember the significance of these practices and the respect they demonstrate toward the divine. By nourishing your Tao Soul, you ensure a strong and enduring connection with the Tao.
It is important to remember that a decline in Taoist well-being does not spell the end. There is hope, and you can revitalize your Tao Soul. The remedy lies in returning to the basics—the fundamental teachings and practices that form the bedrock of Taoism. Revisit the five virtues, the ten commandments, and immerse yourself in the scriptures, teachings, and insightful blog posts that explore the essence of Taoism. Cultivate the virtues within your heart and humbly acknowledge your mistakes. Seek guidance from your master, ask for teachings, and follow their instructions. Embrace the transformative power of virtue, and ask for forgiveness from the divine as you correct your course. By taking these steps, you will realign yourself with the Tao and set the stage for a remarkable recovery
