Keeping Peace

<"keeping_peace.htm">

Keeping Peace

"Do not exalt the very gifted, and people will not contend. Do not treasure goods that are hard to get, and people will not become thieves. Do not focus on desires, and people's minds will not be confused."

"Therefore, enlightened people lead others by opening their minds, reinforcing their centres, relaxing their desires and strengthening their characters."

"Let the people always act without strategy or desire; let the clever not venture to act. Act without action and nothing is without order."

Enlightened people know that their attitudes have greater influence than their actions. They know that the things they respect and value soon become the motivating force behind their people. Therefore they openly value worthwhile qualities that others can achieve - integrity, flexibility, spontaneity.

They don't emphasise extraordinary achievements or impressive possessions because they know these things will undermine the harmony and accord among the people. Enlightened people bring peace and progress to their organisation through the force of correct attitude. They practice non-interference and shape events with the power of their attitudes (3).

Lead by example, lead by having an open, enlightened mind, lead by remaining true to ourselves, lead by being free of desire and having strength of character. Such a person is a natural leader, one who is respected and whose example is followed. It is the opposite of the tyrant who is closed-minded and ignorant, who uses force to make people cooperate and who is full of base desires.

Published by: David Tuffley (January 2000) | Home Page