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~reinforce their centers~

From time to time, those or other words from the Tao surface in my consciousness, so short and sweet, thought I'd share.  My translation of choice uses "reinforcing their centers" in chapter 3, which it titles ch3 "KEEPING PEACE".  (Translation by R.L. Wing)

To be 'correct(?)', I found an online translation I can quote, so I'll give you that chapter 3 translation:

Chapter 3
Do not glorify the achievers
So the people will not squabble
Do not treasure goods that are hard to obtain
So the people will not become thieves
Do not show the desired things
So their hearts will not be confused
 
Thus the governance of the sage:
Empties their hearts
Fills their bellies
Weakens their ambitions
Strengthens their bones
 
Let the people have no cunning and no greed
So those who scheme will not dare to meddle
 
Act without contrivance
And nothing will be beyond control
(Translation by Derek Lin, www.Taoism.net and Tao Te Ching: Annotated & Explained, published by SkyLight Paths in 2006)

I'd do well to center myself again.  I guess in keeping with this blog's story.  I gave that casio g-shock in black and gold to my youngest step son for his birthday last month.  Still own the PC I snapped a pic of.  Hmm, I'm not sure if I'd be better off with less (minimal) of possessions.  The stick?  It's ironic, it was utterly easy to come into possession of, just picking it up off the forest floor.  But the sentimental aspects, I think i'd not classify as easy.

One off and on fantasy I have is to become invisible to the majority of the humans I pass and whom passes me.  Wonder what that'd be like.  Like, maybe just flashing in and out of the masses of awarenesses.  Would be neat, if I could step in and out at will, too.  Hmm.  Anyways

As quoted above, 'Fills their bellies' is the line that I perceive relates to 'reinforcing their centers'.  I very much, also, like the idea of having an ability to calm one's desires, open their minds, reinforce their centers, strengthening their characters.

To have both these abilities?  If there is a potential there for me, perhaps I'd give up 'the stick' for that, eh.

I'm glad I posted today.  I feel better.

Oh, happy valentines day, in case anyone didn't get one today  :)

~peace~

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