Day 1: Beginning

Day 1

This is the moment of embarking.

All auspicious signs are in place.

" In the beginning all things are hopeful. We prepare ourselves to start anew. Though we may be intent on the magnificent journey ahead, all things are contained in the first moment: our optimism, our faith, our resolution, our innocence. In order to start we must make a decision. This decision is a commitment to daily self -cultivation. We must make a strong connection to our inner selves. Outside matters are superfluous. Alone and naked, we negotiate all of life's travails. Therefore, we alone must make something of ourselves, transforming ourselves into the instruments for experiencing the deepest spiritual essence of life. Once we make our decision, all things will come to us. Auspicious signs are not a superstition, but a confirmation. They are a response. It is said that if one choices to pray to a rock with enough devotion, even that rock will come alive. In the same way, once we choose to commit ourselves to spiritual practice, even the mountains and valleys will reverberate to the sound of our purpose."

- Deng Ming-Dao

There is a book entitled, 365 Tao: Daily Meditations by Deng Ming-Dao. I bought it at a Baldwin's Book Barn, near Chadds Ford, PA the day after Christmas. When I saw it on the bookshelf in the Eastern Religion section I knew that this was the vehicle upon which I'd begin a one year blog based not only on concepts of Taoist philosophy, but also a journey to the true self.

It is New Year's Day 2010.

The first day and the first step in walking a jouney of 10,000 miles with authentic purpose. I believe that by being a seeker of the truth, in all its experiential & non-experiential forms, that I have gained a perspective - reflection of a perception that is reality. Attempting to follow a path towards clarity - no illusion (maya), identify self-deception on all levels based on prevous social and cultural programming. One must find personal truth! Close your eyes and move forward with the knowledge that you have no idea where you're going. For now, I am the wandering Toaist.

"If one does not find personal truth, then one will suffer in ignorance and self-deception."

- Demori