31/5/2021
On 20 May, NCI was proud to hold its first Chinese Philosophy Lecture session of 2022 entitled “Daoism: Be Like Water”. The talk was once again given by founder of Embrace China Ltd Mr Manuel Parreno, who studied Chinese Philosophy in China for three years after developing a passion for Daoism.
Many of us have heard Bruce Lee's exhortation to ''Be like water, my friend''. In doing so he asks us to feel like water and flow smoothly and unencumbered by preconceived limits and restrictions. This way of thinking can be traced back to Laozi, the founder of Daoism, who explored the water metaphor and celebrated qualities that rendered rigidity inferior. To flow without retaining a fixed shape and to yield without being defeated is to assume the power of the life-giving element that sustains all life.
In this talk, the speaker exposed what it meant to be water in Daoism by focussing on the one book ascribed to Laozi, The Classic of the Way and Virtue. While interpreting the meaning of water can give a comprehensive understanding of the lifestyle espoused by Daoism, acting on this knowledge, the truth and laws that govern the order of things, is key to a better self and elevation in spiritual life.
Manuel also held a very insightful and interesting Q and A session where our audience couldn’t stop asking questions! The online event lasted just over an hour and was well received by over 30 University staff, students and members of the general public. Several attendees expressed a fascination with Daoism and their wish to attend more Chinese Philosophy talks in the near future.
~ENDS~
Posted on Saturday 4th June 2022