So many of us bulldoze our way through life determined to become a so-called success, as we strive to be a proud card-carrying member of the society of determined people.
Regrettably, these folks often worship at the altar of his or her accomplishments and to-do list only to realize, at some point along the success journey, their blazing tail leads to a dead-end of unhappiness and non-contentment. Some would argue that I am the poster child for this miserable voyage, as many considered me successful by industry standards while I appeared that I was “winning,” but the truth of the matter, I was dying on the inside! It took me far too long to understand that sadness is what happens to folks like me who run, run, and run; chasing what we think would make us happy.
If this sounds like you or perhaps maybe someone you know, I urge you to keep reading even if you have an aversion to eastern philosophy or to “Winnie the Pooh.” Yes, Pooh Bear! Stay with me, as I try to connect the dots with hope that you find this narrative thought provoking and maybe life changing.
A book, “Tao Te Ching,” written 2,500 years ago by a Chinese man named Lao Tzu is considered by many scholars, as the wisest book ever written. The “Tao Te Ching” is a set of 81 short verses that are the major source of ancient Chinese philosophy called Taoism. The word Tao (pronounced dau) translates to “the way.” Taoism is living philosophy, not a religion, that emphasizes being simple, sincere, and humble while following a system of beliefs, attitudes, and practices that encourages us to change our life by changing the way we think. As you might imagine, Taoism conflicts with the generally accepted views of Western society. Nevertheless, make no mistake; there is one simple reason that the “Tao Te Ching” is the most published book second only to the Bible; its teaching transforms lives!
The “Tao Te Ching” is relatively short read, but it is very deep and difficult to understand. I suggest that to grasp Lao Tzu message, one should read or listen to the words multiple times. If you find the “Tao Te Ching’s” complexity too much of an undertaking, I suggest an easier but arguably just as profound a read called, “Change Your Thoughts, Change Your Life.” by my favorite author, Dr. Wayne W. Dyer. In this book, Dyer reviewed hundreds of translations of the “Tao Te Ching” and penned 81 essays on how to apply the ancient wisdom of Lao-tzu to the modern world. If we want to tackle the “Tao Te Ching” with a more elementary approach, I encourage you to consider reading “The Tao of Pooh.” This engaging book centers on the premise that one can understand the fundamentals of Taoism through close reading of “Winnie the Pooh.” Through brilliant and witty dialogue, the 1982 best seller mixes Chinese proverbs with quotes from the characters of “Winnie the Pooh” to give examples of different personality types that explains the Taoism.
As most of us know, Eeyore frets, Piglet hesitates, Rabbit calculates, Owl pontificates, Kanga nurtures, Christopher Robin imagines and the Pooh just is. Of course, Pooh Bear is the central character to understanding Taoism. Winnie the Pooh; our adorable bear finds great pleasure in a simple jar of honey and an afternoon with his friends because frankly, he does not need anything else. Pooh does not think much, worry, or plan. In fact, he does not do much at all and that my friend is the secret wisdom of the Taoists. Yes indeed, a simple bear, easy to please, and slow to anger, makes his peaceful and content trek through life with love in his heart.
This lifestyle may appear natural for Pooh Bear; a simple-minded mortal with no commitments or real responsibilities, but does anyone truly live this way. … “The Pooh Way?” Sure, they do, but like most things in life, it is hard before it is easy. Please know that following the Pooh Way (Taoism) does not suggest that we should not have goals or ambition. What is paramount is the mindset that we have in achieving our goals. In other words, not worrying about them, attaching too much importance to them, or focusing on the future while snubbing the present. Instead, just let things happen.
Perhaps like you, I cannot help but ache for the simplicity of Pooh’s lifestyle that comprises things like eliminating judgement of others, ignoring the seductive lure of fame and acquisition with no desire for attention or recognition. Instead, he lived a simple life with radical humility.
Although my long-standing routine rejected Pooh’s mantra because I viewed Taoism and Winnie the Pooh’s methodology as impractical if not impossible, I was willing try this ancient approach to living. Fast-forward a couple of years and I find a much different and better person. I am not where I want to be but I am not who I was.
Maybe the most important thing I learned is that when I change the way I look at things the things I look at change. Consider roaming through the enchanting world of “Winnie the Pooh.” while soaking up priceless teachings on simplicity and natural living. Allow me to conclude this message with words of wisdom from our friend, Pooh Bear: “Lots of people talk to animals. Maybe, but not very many listen. That’s the problem.”
Amen, Pooh Bear!
Harry Pappas Jr. CFP®
Managing Director-Investments
Master of Science Degree Personal Financial Planning
Certified Estate & Trust Specialist ™
Certified Divorce Financial Analyst™
Pappas Wealth Management Group of Wells Fargo Advisors
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harry.pappas@wellsfargoadvisors.com
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