9. Te
Te: The Intangible Resource of True Virtue
Te is an incredible resource—a subtle and invaluable form of energy that transcends material wealth and superficial rewards. It represents the power cultivated through mind casting (focused intention) and acting in alignment with the WuWei way: the effortless flow of planting goodness without attachment or expectation.
The Nature of Te
Te is not merely a concept of good moral conduct; it is an intangible resource of immense value. While wealth may bring temporary happiness during one’s lifetime, it holds no meaning after death. In contrast, Te:
- Refreshes and nourishes your soul.
- Promotes good health and lasting joy in all aspects of life—now and beyond.
Te surpasses material wealth and recognition, making it an enduring treasure cherished by masters and enlightened individuals.
The Contrast Between Te and Blessing Reward
Good deeds performed with the intention of seeking recognition or fame diminish the natural potential of Te. Instead, such actions result in a limited Blessing Reward, a different, finite form of energy. While Blessing Rewards may offer temporary benefits, they lack the depth and transformative power of Te.
Thus, the focus should not be on chasing Blessing Rewards, but on cultivating Te, which arises through selfless actions and pure intentions.
Te in Context: Ancient and Modern Perspectives
- Ancient understanding: Energy, as a phenomenon, was incomprehensible.
- Modern understanding: Energy is now widely recognized and studied.
- Te's unique nature: Despite modern advancements, Te remains unknown to most mortals but is recognized and cherished by enlightened individuals and masters.
Te is a subtle energy that operates beyond the physical realm, making it difficult for most people to perceive or fully understand.
Actions That Block Te
Te cannot flourish in a clinging or calculating mind. For example:
- If you perform a good deed but are impatient to proclaim it to others, you are acting from an impure heart, which obstructs Te.
- If you constantly dwell on your good deeds or fear losing your honor, the essence of Te is lost.
True Te arises from selflessness and the absence of ego. It requires humility, detachment, and an open heart.
Living in the WuWei Way to Cultivate Te
To cultivate Te, embrace the WuWei way, which emphasizes effortless action without attachment:
- Accomplish things, but never brag.
- Complete your work, but do not dwell on your goodness or merits.
By living in this way, Te becomes established and accumulates naturally. It becomes an inseparable part of your being, capable of neutralizing impurities and radiating positivity.
The Practice of Letting Go
To truly cultivate Te, you must develop the ability to let go of attachment to outcomes. This requires a magnanimous heart and the willingness to release clinging and calculating tendencies. The practice can be summarized as:
- Mind cast for Te, then let it go.
- Mind cast for Te, then let it go.
- Mind cast for Te, then let it go.
Letting go is not easy, as it requires effort to cultivate Te and effortlessness to release attachment. This balance is essential for spiritual growth and the true accumulation of Te.
Final Reminder
Do not boast about or obsess over the goodness you have accomplished. True Te is cultivated through humility, detachment, and selfless action. By embracing these principles, you will embody a state of balance and purity, allowing Te to flourish as a genuine part of your being.