This is a translation of the complete Tao Te Ching, a collection of 81 verses written by Lao-tzu, a Chinese prophet roughly 25 centuries ago. In the introduction, Dr. Dyer notes that Tao Te Ching translates to “living and applying the Great Way.” Throughout the verses, it is clear that Lao-tzu believes that the Tao is not something that can be put into words. But to be effortlessly in the flow of life is to be with the Tao.
I worked my way through this book over 81 days, one verse per day. I actually read it simultaneously with another book, Tao Te Ching, New English Translation, by Stephen Mitchell. I enjoyed reading the same verse in each book daily to see the different translations. Some days, the verses were identical and some days they seemed like different verses entirely. The verses of the Tao have a calming effect. Most days, they simply presented the reminder to let go of the resistance to what is and just be.
The elegance and simplicity of the verses are an incredible counterbalance to my incessant, analytical mind. This is not a book that I will put back on the shelf indefinitely. I could just as easily just start back at verse one and continue for another 81 days, then rinse and repeat. I would welcome further discussion and believe the Tao Te Ching to be a wonderful basis for a spiritual study group. I see that in my future.
