Tales From the Tao : The Wisdom of the Taoist Masters

For thousands of years, students of the Tao have gleaned inspiration and illumination from its parables, and these thought-provoking examples discuss topics ranging from dignity in the face of challenge, to judging character, to how to deal with loss. Whether solidifying a spiritual truth, unravelling a puzzle for contemplation, or providing a moment of humour, these tales are a mainstay of Eastern philosophy. This unique collection brings together the most inspiring, illuminating and downright funny stories from the classical works of Taoist masters, alongside new writing inspired by traditional tales. Set against a backdrop of the mountains, waterfalls and gorges of China, these tales introduce important Taoist ideas about many of the most basic human experiences - including birth, death, loss, pleasure, and how to surrender to the most fundamental experience of the Tao itself. Interwoven with classic Taoist quotations and illustrated with beautiful photography throughout, these engrossing narratives are as relevant today as they were in the great dynasties of ancient China. 31 inspiring stories by Chuang Tzu, Lao Tzu, and other Taoist masters—now presented in one easy-to-read volume featuring over 100 photographs.For thousands of years, students of the Tao have gleaned inspiration and illumination from its parables, and these thought-provoking examples discuss topics ranging from dignity in the face of challenge, to judging character, to how to deal with loss. Whether solidifying a spiritual truth, unravelling a puzzle for contemplation, or providing a moment of humor, these tales are a mainstay of Eastern philosophy.This unique collection brings together the most inspiring, illuminating and downright funny stories from the classical works of Taoist masters, alongside new writing inspired by traditional tales. Set against a backdrop of the mountains, waterfalls and gorges of China, these tales introduce important Taoist ideas about many of the most basic human experiences—including birth, death, loss, pleasure, and how to surrender to the most fundamental experience of the Tao itself.Interwoven with classic Taoist quotations and illustrated with beautiful photography throughout, these engrossing narratives are as relevant today as they were in the great dynasties of ancient China. The Ancient Chinese Philosophy Of Taoism Is More Popular Today Than Ever. This Accessible And Enlightening Collection Offers Stories And Quotations From The Most Celebrated Taoist Masters Including Chuang Tzu, Lieh Tzu And Lao Tzu, As Well As New Writing Inspired By The Traditional Tales. Set Against A Stunning Photographic Backdrop Of The Mountains, Waterfalls And Gorges Of China, These Stories Introduce Important Taoist Ideas About Our Most Basic Human Experiences, Including Birth, Death, Loss, Gain, Simple Dignity In The Face Of Challenge, How To Judge Character, When To Move Forward, When To Retreat And How To Surrender To The Most Fundamental Experience Of The Tao Itself. As A Longtime Student Of Taoism, Solala Towler Understands That The Simple Yet Profound Truths Of Spiritual Practice And Awakening Are Often Best Learned From These Entertaining, Illuminating, Puzzling, Often Downright Funny Tales, Rather Than Through Ponderous Exposition. These Engrossing Narratives Are As Relevant And Useful Today As They Were In The Great Dynasties Of Ancient China. The scope ranges widely over time and place, from the "Upanishads" of ancient India to the words and images of Japan's ukiyo-e - the "floating world." The introductions, providing invaluable background on history, belief, and interpretation, are provided by thinkers, writers, and artists who are renowned for communicating accessibly and imaginatively. The translations used are in a thoroughly readable modern idiom. Accompanying images are chosen for their evocative appropriateness. The stories in "Tales From the Tao" introduce traditional Taoist principles and ideas about many of the most basic human experiences - birth, death, loss, gain, dignity in the face of challenge, how to judge character, when to move forward, when to retreat, how to deal with fame, and how to surrender to the most fundamental experience of the Tao itself. The insights and ideas that the stories present to us can be of great assistance in today's often stressful and confusing world