In the history of human thought, the exploration of fate and freedom has always been an enduring topic. From the Stoic philosophy of ancient Greece to the Daoist concept of "Wu Wei" and the Buddhist teaching of "letting go of attachments," these wisdom traditions each uniquely explain how humans can face the impermanence of fate and find inner peace within the currents of destiny.
Life is like a long journey of cultivation, where we search, struggle, and grow. "If you are willing, you will be led by fate; if you are unwilling, you will be dragged by fate." This statement reveals a simple yet profound truth: fate is an irresistible force, and our only choice is how to respond to it. This idea aligns with the views of Stoic philosophers. The Stoics emphasized that humans should accept the arrangements of nature and guide their lives through reason. Epictetus, in his "Enchiridion," mentioned that we should accept things we cannot change and focus our attention on actions we can control.
This perspective of submitting to fate is not a passive surrender but an active acceptance. In facing life's setbacks and uncertainties, submitting to fate means we can calmly face reality instead of constantly struggling and complaining. By accepting fate, we can reduce internal conflicts and anxiety, thereby finding inner peace.
Echoing Stoic philosophy, the Daoist concept of "Wu Wei" also advocates for following nature rather than forcing things. Laozi wrote in the "Dao De Jing": "Do nothing, and nothing will be left undone." Here, "Wu Wei" does not mean doing nothing but rather acting in accordance with the natural laws and not going against them. In Daoism, all things have their own rules of operation, and humans should follow these rules instead of trying to change them.
"Wu Wei" is a profound wisdom that encourages us to maintain a non-compulsive and unforced attitude in our actions. Such an attitude allows us to remain balanced and peaceful when facing various changes in life. Governing through non-action means achieving harmony with nature by following its power rather than relying on our own will to forcibly change the world.
"Love what we love, but know that love is like morning dew, not to be obsessed with," corresponds to the Buddhist teaching of "letting go of attachments," which is a crucial path to liberation. The Buddha taught his disciples to let go of worldly attachments to transcend suffering and afflictions. Clinging to the permanence and immutability of things is one of the roots of human suffering. Buddhism teaches that the world is impermanent, and all things are transient and constantly changing. Therefore, being attached to a certain state or thing only leads to pain and disappointment.
Letting go of attachments does not mean giving up everything but achieving a state where we are not bound by external things. Through practice, Buddhists learn how to maintain inner tranquility and awareness when facing life's changes and challenges. Letting go of attachments is an inner liberation that allows us to transcend our narrow self-awareness and see a broader perspective of life.
Although the Stoic philosophy, Daoism, and Buddhism have significant differences in cultural backgrounds and specific doctrines, they show a remarkable resonance in how they face fate, nature, and the impermanence of life. These wisdom traditions all emphasize that by accepting reality and following nature, we can find inner peace and tranquility.
This philosophical thought still holds significant relevance for modern people. In a rapidly changing and highly competitive society, people often feel pressure and anxiety. Facing various uncertainties and life challenges, we can draw strength from these ancient wisdoms. By accepting things we cannot change and following the natural laws of life, we can reduce internal conflicts and suffering, thus finding true freedom and happiness.
Applying these philosophical thoughts to daily life is not easy, but it is a worthwhile goal. We can start practicing from the following aspects:
Accept Reality: When facing life's setbacks and challenges, learn to accept reality first, understanding that some things are beyond our control. This can reduce unnecessary anxiety and pain.
Follow Nature: When making decisions, try to consider natural laws and avoid doing things that feel forced. This attitude not only helps us deal with changes more easily but also reduces internal conflicts.
Let Go of Attachments: Learn to let go of attachments to certain things or states, understanding that everything is impermanent. Through meditation and reflection, we can gradually cultivate a more open and accepting mindset.
On life's journey, we may encounter storms and obstacles, but as long as we maintain a peaceful mindset and learn to submit, let go of attachments, and practice non-action, we can face everything with greater composure.