Balance is key in finding harmony in life from "summary" of Trying Not to Try by Edward Slingerland
The ancient Chinese philosopher Zhuangzi tells a story about a butcher named Ding. Ding was so skilled at his craft that his knife never needed sharpening - it simply glided through the meat with ease. When asked about his secret, Ding explained that he had found a way to achieve perfect balance in his work. He didn't force the blade through the meat, but instead let it find its own way. In doing so, Ding was able to effortlessly achieve his goal without unnecessary effort or struggle. This idea of balance and harmony is a central theme in Chinese philosophy, particularly in the concept of wu-wei. Wu-wei is often translated as "effortless action" or "non-doing," but it is more than simply doing nothing. It is about finding the right balance between action and inaction, between trying too hard and not trying at all. In our modern Western society, we are often taught that success comes from hard work and determination. We push ourselves to achieve our goals, often at the expense of our own well-being. But the ancient Chinese philosophers would argue that this approach is ultimately self-defeating. By striving too hard, we disrupt the natural flow of things and create unnecessary tension and struggle. Instead, they suggest t...
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