Contemplation.


69

Contemplation.


This chapter is one of those where making a direct reference to the artistic and creative persons and the theme of the chapter is not at first so obvious. Here we find Lao Tzu giving advice and instructions to those who may find themselves leading an army to war. 

There are very few if ever any times when a person involved in a creative process will feel that they are heading out to win a war or fight a battle; although there are times when an artist might make comment about attacking a canvas with a real sense of energy and spirit. While watching the artist at work it might look as though that is in fact what they are doing, arms going this way and that, one colour after another in a frenzy of motion.

Where the creative person, and for that, all of us, might gain advice from the Tao Te Ching in this passage is in the preparation. For everything we do and desire to do well, there should be a time when before we "attack" the project we stop and wonder, contemplate and gather our thoughts. 

As we gather and make ready the tools for what lies ahead, once again familiarise ourselves with these old and trusted friends. Give them the respect they deserve because in the hands of the artist they serve us well. 

Once prepared and ready then, and only then, should the task begin. From time to time it is a worthy exercise to retreat, step back, contemplate again before making another forward push.

Once the task is complete, we can stand back and once again contemplate an accomplishment and already begin to consider the next forward move.

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