In this 6th episode, we examine the teachings of Tao te Ching's Verse 5. There are two verses that teach the function of emptiness, this verse 5 and verse 11, which we'll treat in 6 weeks.

There are many images that help us to understand emptiness and its power: a waving flag, a bellows with which to start a fire, and a flute. From each we can learn more about the power of emptiness. Emptiness is not just negation of stuff, but is the source of creativity, art, and compassion.

Emptiness in this verse becomes paired with "no preference," and along the way I introduce the Chinese character Ren (仁).

Our reader and question-asker is Julie Tallard Johnson from Wisconsin. You may find out more about this writer, counselor and mentor at https://www.julietallardjohnson.com/.

May your days begin in peace, and become wombs for radical hope.

Marc

02.02.2023