The Lessons of the Tao about water

I mentioned a few posts back that I read Hua-Ching Ni's I Ching whenever I feel the need. Today I did what i usually do.. opened it at a random page. Here's what I found.

"The following are eight ways in which people of universal virtue can learn from water.

1. Be content with a "low" position. By remaining low, one may be safe and free from competition.

2. Remain profound. A profound mind is as quiet as the deep ocean. Therefore it is undisturbed by the waves on the surface.

3. Give generously. Water constantly gives without asking to be repaid.

4. Speak faithfully. The flow of water always faithfully goes towards the sea.

5. Govern gently. Though water moves with gentleness, it can overcome even the hardest obstacle under Heaven.

6. Work capably and adaptably. Water can fit what is square or what is round. It keeps its true nature in any containment or circumstance.

7. Take action opportunely. Water freezes in Winter and melts in Summer. Its inflexibility in Winter is like death. Its softness in Spring generates new life.

8. Never fight. Water does not fight for itself, thus it is beyond blame.

Ian: Beautiful stuff.