Reconciling the Desire for Perfection with Yin Yang Doctrine

How can a person's desire to be wholly good and wholly devoid of bad/evil be reconciled with the universal law of yin and yang that suggests the universe is a constant harmonious interaction of two opposing forces? This question has puzzled many, especially those influenced by Western thought, who often project concepts of good and evil onto yin and yang.

Yin and Yang: Beyond Good and Evil

For someone with an understanding rooted in Taoism, it is crucial to understand that yin and yang do not represent good and evil. This projection of moral values onto the principles of yin and yang is a Western construct and not reflective of the original Taoist philosophy.

Keyword: yin yang

The Human Mind's Duality Perception

The human mind has a natural tendency to categorize experiences into 'good' and 'bad' piles based on subjective perceptions and societal norms. This categorization often leads to a desire to eliminate 'bad' actions and only retain 'good' ones. However, this desire is fundamentally flawed because the universe, as it is, cannot be manipulated to fit such human constructs. Reality continues to present itself according to its own laws, regardless of human desires.

The Spinach Paradox

One can compare the struggle to achieve perfection in life to a child's reluctance to eat spinach. Just like a child may refuse to eat greens because they are green, the human mind may reject experiences that are deemed 'bad.' This resistence to include all facets of life, even the unpleasant ones, stems from a desire for a perfect, managed existence.

The constant presence of 'bad' experiences, much like spinach, presents a challenge to individuals striving for a perfect existence. The frustration and struggle arise from the inability to change these experiences according to one's wishes. However, this is where personal growth and maturity come into play.

Personal Growth and Acceptance

Just as children must eventually accept the presence of spinach on their plates, so too must individuals in life. Growing up involves recognizing the interconnectedness and interdependence of life's elements. This recognition allows for a more nuanced and empathetic understanding of experiences, including those deemed 'bad.'

Maturity and understanding of the subtleties of life enable individuals to accept their experiences without trying to reshape them in their preferred fantasy. This acceptance fosters a deeper appreciation for the complexities of life and a more balanced approach to personal growth.

The Taoist Perspective

Taoism teaches that the universe is in a constant state of harmonious interaction, characterized by the interplay of yin and yang. This dynamic relationship ensures that all aspects of existence are considered and appreciated, even those that may seem undesirable or harsh. This perspective encourages a mindset that embraces life as it is, rather than attempting to alter it.

Conclusion

The desire to be wholly good and wholly devoid of bad/evil is a natural part of human existence, but it must be reconciled with the universal law of yin and yang. By adopting a more mature and nuanced understanding of life's experiences, individuals can find balance and peace within themselves and their interactions with the world.embracing the interconnectedness of all aspects of life, and recognizing the value in every experience, an individual can achieve a more holistic and satisfying existence.

Keyword: personal growth, human perception, Taoism

For a more complete treatment of yin yang, good and evil, and why the yin-yang theory is more legitimate and reflective, please refer to Mack Moores' detailed answer on the importance of excluding good from evil and the yin-yang theory. Understanding these concepts can further enrich one's perspective on the complexities of life.