The Highly Regarded by Dr. Andre Muhammad

What is the difference between yes or no? What is the difference between good and evil? Perhaps there are some among us who understand that there might not be a huge disparity. That which is considered "good" may not be necessarily so, as that which is considered "evil" may not be necessarily so either.

If we look at it on the surface level, people, for the most part, have the propensity for viewing themselves as "clear,""good," and "right." No matter how one looks at it, a majority of us would like to be held with high regard. Yet, the sage, however, is one that is able to view him/herself in an opposite manner. In fact, the sage views him/herself as foolish, uncouth, and muddled. This viewpoint could be held as a result of the sage seeing the importance of holding him/herself in the opposite self-perception of "high regard."

Now, at first glance, it easy to understand why people might not accept this notion. It is not common for members of today's society to take such a low position of themselves; however, previous teachings from the Tao suggest that we, like the water that runs in the valley, should seek to take a position that is low and close to the lowest point of the earth. By taking a lower position, the individual diminishes the opportunity to be degraded.

Peace and blessings!