In this brief but profound reflection, translated and adapted for the modern reader from the teachings of the great Taoist master Chuang Tzu, Filippo Falzoni Gallerani explores the path of spontaneous action and inner emptiness. By abandoning the ego’s need to control reality and its selfish desires for self-improvement, we can surrender to the natural flow of life, finding deep harmony and allowing our true essence to act effortlessly.
INSPIRED BY CHUANG TZU
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Not having to make choices or search for alternatives is ideal. With a clear mind, we see reality as it is and spontaneously focus on the right direction.
Self-analysis helps us recognize that it is the “self” (the ego), with its baggage of conditioning, that prevents spontaneity and a clear perception of reality. Consequently, we wish to eliminate it. However, the desire to let go of the “self” cannot possibly be pursued as a selfish goal! Liberation occurs only when we surrender to the natural flow of events.
When we respect the natural flow of events, we act spontaneously, with no need to think about what to do. We do not have planned goals; instead, we pursue fluid goals in accordance with our nature. In doing so, we find harmony with our inner essence and the external world. Action is truly spontaneous only in the absence of goals, which leads to emptiness.
The continuous activity of the separate self creates psychological time—the anticipation of tomorrow—and therefore all the desires and fears of humanity. When our mind is freed from the clouds of thinking, the “here and now” manifests itself clearly and purely. This emptiness is essential for a clear perception of reality.
In Taoism, letting emptiness act means purifying the mirror of the mind of all intentional motivations aimed at obtaining or avoiding something.
As soon as the idea of controlling reality vanishes and we surrender to life, the ego disappears. From this emptiness, spontaneous action arises, which is highly effective because it is entirely free from anxiety. Emptiness helps us live harmoniously; it allows us to interact with things effortlessly and become part of the flow of endless transformation.
Ultimately, conflicts dissolve, and we live in perfect accordance with the evolutionary processes of Nature and the Psyche.
Filippo Falzoni Gallerani, Milan, October 2013
Notes
[1] This is a teaching by the great Chinese Taoist Master Chuang Tzu (or Zhuangzi, 369–286 B.C.), which I have translated and adapted into modern language.
