Compassion allows for bravery, frugality enables generosity, and humility is key for leadership.
Chapter 67
All under heaven consider my Tao great, and unlike anything else. It is precisely because it is great that it seems unlike anything else; if it were like anything else, it would have long since become small. However, I have three treasures that I hold on to and cherish. The first is compassion; the second is frugality; the third is not presuming to be first in the world. Because of compassion, I can be brave; because of frugality, I can be generous; because of not presuming to be first in the world, I can become a leader. Now, if one were brave but without compassion, generous without frugality, or a leader without humility, one would be doomed. Compassion leads to victory in battle and strength in defense. It is the means by which heaven saves and guards.
What's Master DudeWay Say?
The teachings of this chapter remind me of Bob Marley and his song, "Three Little Birds." The song tells us not to worry about things, because every little thing is gonna be alright. That's the kind of attitude Tao is advising here. Be compassionate, don't squander what you have, don't strive to be the first. It's like Marley's song - it's a reassurance, an urging to keep things cool and steady. Just like the birds, we can achieve a lot more if we follow these guidelines.
Dudeism Abides
In a world constantly pushing for more – more riches, more power, more fame – Dudeism advises just the opposite. It asks you to slow down, to care about others, to not be wasteful, and to not strive to always be the first. It's all about taking it easy, man. If you're brave without compassion, generous without being mindful of your resources, or trying to be the leader without taking a step back to let others shine, you're headed down a rough road. Compassion, frugality, and humility – those are the stuff that truly cool Dudes are made of.
Three treasures in hand,
Live like Marley's gentle song,
Peace in heart will land.
