Wu Wisdom Wednesday 9/6/21

Knowing others is wisdom. Knowing yourself is Enlightenment. - Lao-Tzu

From the Tao of Wu, Third Pillar of Wisdom – Chambers, the RZA

This statement reminds me of a portion of one of my favorite books from high school, Tao of Pooh, where Benjamin Hoof introduces Taoism through Winnie the Pooh characters. Probably a book where the RZA drew some of his inspiration.

In the chapter Cottleston Pie it is said, “As we have likely recognized by now, no two snowflakes, trees, or animals are alike. No two people are the same, either. Everything has its own Inner Nature. Unlike other forms of life, though, people are easily led away from what's right for them, because people have Brain, and Brain can be fooled. Inner Nature, when relied on, cannot be fooled. But many people do not look at it or listen to it, and consequently do not understand themselves very much. Having little understanding of themselves, they have little respect for themselves, and are therefore easily influenced by others. But rather than be carried along by circumstances and manipulated by those who can see the weaknesses and behavior tendencies that we ignore, we can work with our own characteristics and be in control of our own lives. The Way of Self-Reliance starts with recognizing who we are, what we've got to work with, and what works best for us.”

Not sure I really have to break this down into business terms. It's almost a reiteration at this point, but I’ll drive it home quickly. It's been a rough few days...

Knowing others takes an utmost level of understanding. Most do not have the intuition naturally or the patience to achieve this gift. If you take the time, learn to read people or even the room, figure out what they are intending to do or what they “need” almost as a second nature, you will easily achieve an upper hand.

On the flip side...once you truly know yourself, the curtain is lifted. It's harder for people to lie, impress, or manipulate you. You see reality crystal clear. Other's opinions do not affect you and you're not driven by ego, and again, will have the upper hand and this time…own nearly every situation. 👐