don't be a goldilocks

The final chapter of The Way of the Voice of Peace is titled Discipline. I did not make it the last chapter because discipline is the least important idea, it was because I wanted the reader to leave knowing that practice and discipline are imperative. Here is the first paragraph of the chapter which I will follow with a commentary.

Chapter 12 - Discipline

Never bargain with Tao. There is no shortcut to heaven.
-Li, Cheng Yu


  Everything I have spoken about thus far in this book needs to be practiced to be embodied. I truly believe there is no other way. To only know in theory what I have presented, without practical application, is like reading about hiking a beautiful mountain trail wihtout ever putting on your hiking boots, feeling the rocks under your feet, hearing the sounds of nature, and seeing firsthand the vistas that appear after the strain of going up a steep hill. To cultivate our potential, we must put in daily effort. This is one of the common characteristics displayed by those people I have had the good fortune to meet in my life, whom I see as coming closest to reaching their potential as human beings.

Commentary:
Recently I attended the Tai chi Gala in Albany N.Y., which is a three day gathering of Tai chi and Chinese internal martial arts practitioners. The skill level of the teachers was very high, each an expert or master in their particular style. What struck me was, it is not the particular style each chooses to practice that is important. What is important is they are dedicated, devoted and disciplined to their practice. They have reached or come close to reaching their potential in their chosen field. When the chosen field or style matches our personal path and we add discipline and dedication, that potential is greatly enhanced.

When I returned home to my own practice and teaching classes we were having intense summer weather and few students showed up to class. Too hot and humid! In the winter here in Vermont, it was too cold. In the summer it is light late into the evening, so some avoid class because they want to stay out. In the winter it gets dark early so they want to stay in. When it comes to personal practice we may use these same excuses, It is too early to practice or it is too late, not enough time. I am too tired or I have too much on my mind. You get the idea.

What I suggest is this, when it comes to practice, Don't be a Goldilocks! If you are looking for the ideal time to go to a class or to practice then you will rarely go to class and practice. To be disciplined , dedicated and devoted to your path and your potential you must be willing to practice in all conditions. When you are hungry enough, you will eat the porridge even when it is too hot or too cold , not only when it is just right.

Are you hungry to realize your personal potential? If so, then discipline, dedication and devotion can not be compromised looking for just the right time. The time is now.
May you know peace.