The hearing that is only in the ears is one thing. The hearing of the understanding is another. But the hearing of the spirit is not limited to any one faculty to the ear, or to the mind.
ZhuangziRead
He who knows the activities of Nature lives according to Nature.
Interpretation
Understanding nature allows one to align their life with its principles.
This quote by Zhuangzi highlights the importance of being aware of and in tune with the natural world. It suggests that those who comprehend the rhythms and laws of nature can lead a life that is harmonious and fulfilling, reflecting a deeper wisdom and respect for the environment surrounding them.
In practice
During a speech about environmental conservation, one might use this quote to emphasize the importance of living in harmony with nature.
The hearing that is only in the ears is one thing. The hearing of the understanding is another. But the hearing of the spirit is not limited to any one faculty to the ear, or to the mind.
Either in conflict with others or in harmony with them, we go through life like a runaway horse, unable to stop.
When people do not ignore what they should ignore, but ignore what they should not ignore, this is known as ignorance.
The true man of the past waited upon Heaven when dealing with people and did not wait upon people when dealing with Heaven.
The mind remains undetermined in the great Void. Here the highest knowledge is unbounded. That which gives things their thusness cannot be delimited by things. So when we speak of 'limits', we remain confined to limited things. The limit of the unlimited is called 'fullness.' The limitlessness of the limited is called 'emptiness.' Tao is the source of both. But it is itself neither fullness nor emptiness
All the fish needs is to get lost in the water. All man needs is to get lost in Tao.
Necessity is the mistress and guide of nature. Necessity is the theme and inventress of nature, her curb and her eternal law.
I go to the Himalayas after every film. I go alone. I go to the interiors, to the villages. Being there itself is like meditation.
If religion and science could be united on the common ground of biological conservation, the problem would be soon solved. If there is any moral precept shared by people of all beliefs, it is that we owe ourselves and future generations a beautiful, rich, and healthful environment.
Next time a sunrise steals your breath or a meadow of flowers leave you speechless, remain that way. Say nothing, and listen as Heaven whispers, "Do you like it? I did it just for you."
The most important environmental issue is one that is rarely mentioned, and that is the lack of a conservation ethic in our culture.
If the national park is, as Lord Bryce suggested, the best idea America has ever had, wilderness preservation is the highest refinement of that idea.
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.