Friday, October 30, 2020

The Ancient Masters

I have just discovered that I have cancer. Not a nice experience but part of lifes rich patterns. The effective learning cycle was first espoused many years ago.  It is an iterative process that suggests we learn best if we go through four stages of the cycle: plan something, do it, reflect on how it worked and then draw conclusions from it about what we will do next time.   

However, when we start with somethig that wasn't planned we have to start at the second stage, do it. The cycle still works. I now have to reflect on what is happening and then draw conclusions from it. I draw strength from others around me that have been through the same process. What will be, will be. I am irrelevant in the great cosmos, all I can do is influence the furture by my behaviour now. I welcome cancer into my life.

I can share my experiences and encourage those around me to reflect on these and their own experiences.  Reflection helps us to see how things happen.  When we reflect we are grounded in the infinite. 

The Way 

The wise project manager is considerate and does harm to no one.  He is courteous and knows how to yield gracefully.  He is open and receptive and can clarify things for others, because he has been there himself.  The wise project manager is not trying to be enlightened, because he is enlightened. 

The Tao

Lao Tzu tells us:

The ancient masters were subtle and profound. 

The depth of their knowledge was unfathomable. 

The sage does not seek fulfilment. 

Not seeking, not expecting, 

He can welcome everything.