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Believe Quote by Laozi

“There is a big misunderstanding about the idea of naturalness. Most people who come to us believing in some freedom or naturalness, but their understanding is what we call [heretical naturalness] ... a kind of "let-alone policy" or sloppiness... For a plant or stone to be natural is no problem…” quote by Laozi
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“There is a big misunderstanding about the idea of naturalness. Most people who come to us believing in some freedom or naturalness, but their understanding is what we call [heretical naturalness] ... a kind of "let-alone policy" or sloppiness... For a plant or stone to be natural is no problem. But for us there is some problem, indeed a big problem. To be natural is something we must work on.”

Laozi

About This Quote

Source Book: Tao Te Ching, Chapter 25, c. 400 BC

Naturalness is not passive; it requires effort and conscious cultivation.

In simple terms: Being natural demands work.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate intentional simplicity.

Themes

philosophy effort naturalness

Mood

contemplative calm

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • environmental stewardship
  • mindful living
  • discipline

Key Concepts

spiritual practice personal development

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does “natural” mean to you?
  • How can you balance effort with ease?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on effort can cause rigidity.

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