What If You Quit Trying To Control Life?

In the world of Taoist philosophy, there's a concept so profound, so elusive, and yet so simple that it practically embodies the essence of cosmic wisdom: Ziran (自然). 

This beautiful word, whispering "self-so" and "naturalness," has been my guiding star in a life dedicated to the pursuit of living free and unfettered. 

Let me take you on a journey through the whimsical and esoteric pathways of Ziran, where the less you try, the more you thrive.

The Path of Least Resistance

Imagine, if you will, the humble water droplet. It doesn’t bulldoze through the rock, but it meanders, finding the path of least resistance, gently carving out its way over time. This is Ziran in action. And this is how I’ve aimed to live my life, minimizing energy expenditure while maximizing efficiency.

Take the Taoist tale of Butcher Ding. With the grace of a ballet dancer, he sliced through oxen, never once needing to sharpen his blade. How? By following the natural lines and spaces within the animal, using minimal effort for maximum effect. 

In my daily doings, whether navigating through a crowded coffeehouse or writing an article, I channel my inner Butcher Ding. I avoid the muscle, the bone, the grind, and instead, I flow through the gaps life presents.

Throwing Shade on the Predictable Path

While society often lures us onto the well-trodden path of predictability, I’ve always been inclined to take the scenic route, trusting that nature is inherently good and benevolent. This belief stems from the heart of Ziran, which assures us that if we walk the path of the Tao, not interfering with the natural machinations of life, things will flourish.

There’s, however, a distinct difference between idleness and following one’s natural destiny. Ziran doesn’t mean sitting back, munching on chips, and waiting for enlightenment to strike. It means tuning into the subtle rhythms of life, discerning the flow of the universe, and aligning oneself with it. 

Picture a surfer riding a wave—not controlling it, but harnessing its power, gliding smoothly to shore. That’s Ziran.

Ziran as Esoteric Flow

Dive a little deeper, and Ziran transcends mere naturalness, touching the metaphysical. This is where things get delightfully esoteric. Ziran isn’t just about being natural, it’s about being naturally aligned with the Tao, the fundamental essence of reality.

Self-Transformation: In the Taoist view, true transformation is an internal process. It’s like a seed growing into a tree, not because someone told it to, but because it’s in its nature to do so. My own journey has been one of embracing this self-so transformation, allowing life to unfold rather than forcing it.

Harmony with Cosmic Order: Living in accordance with Ziran means syncing with the cosmic rhythms. It’s about recognizing that every leaf, every breeze, every moment is a note in the grand symphony of existence. By dancing to this cosmic tune, I find myself moving past human-made distinctions and embracing a more profound order.

Non-Interference: This is perhaps the hardest lesson I’ve had to learn. It’s about letting go of assertive will, relinquishing the need to control every aspect of life. Instead, it’s about trusting that spontaneous transformations will occur naturally if we just step back and allow them to.

Beyond Dualities: The deeper you go, the more you see that Ziran transcends all conceptual divisions. It’s about seeing reality as an undifferentiated whole, where every part is interconnected, and distinctions blur.

Self-Authority: In its highest form, Ziran suggests that each entity is its own authority, not bound by external hierarchies or standards. It’s the ultimate embrace of personal sovereignty, trusting that our true nature is the best guide.

Will You Just Let Go?

Here’s the kicker: life tends to flow more auspiciously when we let go of our crazy intentions centered around trying to exert complete control over our existence. The Taoist way, the Ziran way, is one of graceful non-doing, where by doing less, we achieve more. 

It’s about trusting in the perfect order and benevolence of the universe, allowing ourselves to be carried by the currents of the Tao, and discovering that, often, the best way forward is to simply let go.

So, next time you find yourself straining against the tide, remember the water droplet, the butcher, and the surfer. Embrace the path of least resistance, let nature take its course, and watch as your life unfolds in the most unexpected and delightful ways. After all, in the grand scheme of Ziran, less truly is more.