Monday, October 13, 2025

Lao Tzu: Govern a nation as you would fry a small fish.

Cooking a small fish is a great metaphor, not only for a king to rule the kingdom, but also for you to rule your life. You need to turn the fish over to cook both sides, but not so many times that it falls apart — and this means you must use the Tao of moderation and balance.

A king who follows this path can protect his kingdom against the demons of chaos, crime and conflict, as well as the negative consequences of well-meaning interference. Similarly, those who follow this Tao can protect themselves against the inner demons of self-sabotage and the harmful effects of meddling in other people’s business. Just as the sage kings of ancient times ruled their subjects in peace, Tao cultivators who understand this lesson enjoy harmonious relationships with the people who who are near and dear to them.

When you and your loved ones come together this way, the result is a positive fusion. As your virtue connects with theirs synergistically, everyone gets a bit closer… to the goal of returning to oneness.

https://taoism.net/tao-te-ching-chapter-60/ 

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