As humans, we seem to overcomplicate the meaning of life. However, as I delve deeper into the study of Taoism, I've come to realise that I can learn a lot of the principles and ideals just from observing my 3-year old staffy/Shar pei rescue who seems to have a handle on life. If dogs can go through life without too much trouble, why can't we?
You might be wondering what a dog has to do with the ideals and principles of Taoism. Well, in my view, Mavis is a perfect example of a Taoist - well, near perfect anyway. Let me explain.
Mavis loves to smile. 99 percent of the time, when you approach her, she is wearing the most adorable smile imaginable. A true Taoist is content and happy just being them. There is no reason for Mavis to pretend not to be happy because she just is. She lives for the moment. She doesn't worry about what is going to happen in the future (apart from when she's going to be fed next!) or what has happened in the past. For her, it's all about the present and the people around her.
She is an outdoor dog. She loves just sitting on the lawn and letting the world go by. Every now and again. if you look out the window and watch her, she has her nose in the air, sniffing, and taking in the sights and smells of the backyard. It's almost as if she's in touch with nature and is at peace with her surroundings. Taoism is all about connecting with nature and appreciating what it has to offer. While Mavis doesn't harvest food from the stuff we grow in the backyard (although she has, at times, helped herself to certain plants she shouldn't!), she certainly appreciates the backyard for what we have growing there.
Taoism is about being in the moment and trying not to let the stresses of life get to you. It's about accepting who you are and not worrying about what other people think of you. Gratitude is a huge part of contentment. The more things you are grateful for, the less you are likely to be unhappy about.
Take a leaf out to Mavis' book. Live in the moment ...
Nice post!!
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