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The Daoist Outlook・093

Jun 05, 2026

The Snake Moon Wanes


   As we phase out of the first moon of Summer and gallop into the Solstice, think of this little moment as the calm before the storm. Once it's "Go Time," nature won't care if you're ready or not - the heat is coming. The tail end of a Snake is soft and could be compared to that precious seed of Yin that sits within the fat belly of Yang - it's probably a good idea to cherish it. ☯

   As for the poetry of the moment, are you ready to rumble? It's like the old iconic hero, Li Kui, from the classic tale, 108 Heros of Liang Shan Marsh. He was known as the Black Whirlwind and was famous for ripping off all of his clothes and charging the thickest pits of combat with two huge battle axes. Perhaps it's good that he was always ready for war - but not if the war was still several days away. Surely, the other 107 heroes would have preferred him sober and clothed as they hiked to their battle positions.
   To make this make sense, let's save our energy for the big show. Anxiety is like revving an idle engine. Worry is a prayer for the worst. Depression is like dragging dead weight. Wouldn't it be better to chill? If we can muster a moment to ourselves amidst this madness, why would we sully it with sour sentiments? The hottest part of the Fire Horse is still ahead of us - so if you can find a minute to slow down... savor it.

✧ Intentional Stints of Stillness ✧

In the Shower: Maybe bathe in silence
While Commuting: 
No music, no podcasts
Standing in Line: Observe yourself observing
Running Errands: Treat it like a meditation
On the Toilet: Put your phone away

Let Yourself be Bored

Contents


・Shifu Says: A brief word from our head teacher, Shifu David Wei.
・Student of the Month: Could it be you? What did you do to earn it?
・The Daoist Calendar:
Special holidays and how to observe them.
・Tai Chi True or False: You've got a 50/50 chance. Is it Yin or Yang?
・Sifu Violet Lee: This round, Shifu is a guest on HER show! Enjoy! 
・This is How to Brew It: This is our first green tea in over five years.
・Final Fortune Cookie: Big wit and wisdom from a tiny little idiom.


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