The Highest Goodness Is Like Water

Xuefeng

Water nourishes all things without competing with them; it cleanses dirt, purifying all things, yet does not seek the highest place. Water takes the shape of its container, whether square or round, helping others without complaint. It transforms into clouds, soaring across the sky, indifferent to mountain peaks or valleys, plains or deserts, making its home everywhere without regret. Water is soft and humble: it flows when it can, rests when needed, sings when it should, and remains silent when appropriate. It changes form endlessly but never departs from its essence; in motion or stillness, it always returns to its source.

The highest goodness is like water. Water is "close to the Tao," embodying its qualities.

Those who seek goodness should learn from water; those who pursue the Tao should learn from water.

Life comes from the Tao and returns to the Tao. Since the Tao shapes both my body and nature, I should fully express my inner light, dedicating myself to my parents, children, siblings, society, and nature. Give without expecting anything in return; help others cleanse the dust from their hearts with sincerity and love. Let others benefit and willingly take the lower position. Whether dealing with benefactors or enemies, acquaintances or strangers, as long as it brings good to others, help them without judging their faults or mistakes. If wronged or misunderstood, so be it—just fulfill your responsibilities without complaint. After giving, don’t focus on whether or not you receive anything in return, because we trust that the Tao does not shortchange anyone.

Water’s nature is cool and gentle. Though it sometimes flows with mud and sand, its purity remains. When stirred, it becomes murky, but that’s no problem. Once still, it quickly returns to its pure nature. People in society are the same: sometimes caught in confusion or mixed with the mundane, the wise may be mistaken for the foolish or worldly. But it’s no matter. When the turbulence subsides, as long as we are grateful to the Greatest Creator, revere the Greatest Creator, LIFE, and nature, and walk the path of the Greatest Creator, the dirt that stains us will soon be washed away, and our pure nature will reemerge.

Rigid things break easily, and what is strong eventually ages. Tender willow branches sway gracefully with the wind without losing their beauty. The soft branches don’t easily break under the weight of snow. A sword may slice through water, but the soft water does not die. Mountains may crumble, but rivers and seas are not easily severed. The soft overcomes the hard, while the hard struggles to conquer the soft. A dam may block water, but eventually, water will break through. Thus, expressing gentleness often benefits both oneself and others.

Who can destroy water? Who can truly harm water? Who can live without water? Who does not depend on water?

The highest goodness is like water. If a person can be like water, they will be one with the Tao and enjoy an endless, flowing existence.