The origins of my beliefs were structured early on by the Greek myths my father would read to me at bedtime. I realized the connection between those stories and the simple ethical and moral values I was learning every day through a parochial education. I also learned the value of disciplined rituals. The sisters told me that the spiritual lessons and Jesus’ parables would keep me safe.
When I started high school, however, I encountered violence. I was shocked. My father, being a lover of the Socratic method, helped me with reason and I began to answer the major question of those years — “Why?” It was a reliable method of inquiry.
When my father became ill, I started the study of martial arts. My instructor saw my proclivity for the intelligence and structure of tai chi, but I had not developed the physical skills yet. One of the lessons he taught me was, “You don’t have a problem; you have just not made a decision.” He wanted me to learn the “medicine” of Bodhi Dharma — all the benefits bestowed in life without karmic debt.
When my parents died, my young life came face to face with tough lessons and I had to find my sense of liberation in concentrating on having good relationships with people and finding an authentic point of reference with them. Today, although my future is unknown and fear sometimes presents itself, I strive to be strong and faithful to my truth: that there is nothing to fear — all that is facing me is something I don’t know about yet.
I trust the laws of the universe. I see in humans the variety and glory of the way consciousness manifests itself for the good of everyone. And yet, like a spring that never stops bubbling, have humans found it yet? They seem to be caught in duality. But when I perceive unity in everything, I see it in people unselfishly helping others even when misfortune occurs. Sharing similar experiences enables compassion and integrity to take thought beyond suffering. I believe that because we are tied together, I can always help to uplift others, even in adversity.
This is the pith of my way: Life can be long or short, so I act as if my reputation precedes me and my memory outlives me. “Keep company with those you are willing to die with,” I once read. Then no disparaging word is needed.
Lao Tse wrote in the Tao De Ching: “The Source is Nameless” but I plunge my imagination into the depths of what life would be like if everything were OK. This conundrum tickles a sense of joy in me. I’ve come to a point where making life itself a treasure is amazingly profound. My mind knows this enlivening joy like the skin feels warmth from the sun. I liken it to feeling the greater consciousness. And, the more I invest in promoting the best about life, the more I seem to receive a bounty from living.
Donovan Worland says he makes frequent attempts at Taoist living. And those who know him say he succeeds. This column is coordinated by Lane Interfaith Alliance to offer inspiration, share personal spiritual experiences and bring understanding of individual faith perspectives with the intention of blessing the community and world. For information, visit www.laneinterfaithalliance.org or call 344-5693.