Monday, January 21, 2008

Doing for Others by Dr. Andre Muhammad

According to the seventh verse of the Tao, we are again reminded that heaven and earth are eternal. More specifically, we are told that heaven and earth endure, particularly as they both live for something beyond themselves. The something beyond themselves could refer to the fact that their purpose is to provide for the living. Thus, the notion is that by providing for the living, heaven and earth's durability continues infinitely.

The implication for humans is that they too should seek to provide for those who are living. Moreover, humans should challenge themselves to think and do for others before thinking and doing for self. By doing this, humans automatically endure.

The sage is one who knows and lives by this precept. As a result of the sage putting the needs of others first, he/she ends up ahead. Again, we must be like the sage, always remaining a witness to life and serving the needs of others.

Peace and blessings!

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