The Tao of Kung Fu #16

Undiscerning Minds Absorb Poison

More about this video and Taoism here............................... This short video is from the 1970's TV series "Kung Fu". "Kung Fu" tells the adventures of a fictional Shaolin priest named Kwai Chang Caine, played by David Carradine. Caine wanders the American "Wild West" in the 1880's, with nothing more than compassion, moderation, humility and a little Shaolin magic. Each episode also takes the viewer back to Caine's childhood in the Shaolin temple. It is here under the instruction of the blind charismatic Master Po (Keye Luke) and the stern yet loving Master Kan, young Caine (Radames Pera) learns the harmoniously balanced ways of Tao. The teachings of the Shaolin were meticulously researched for the "Kung Fu" series, making it one of the most authentic interpretations of the Taoist philosophy in popular culture. I recently decided to post selected scenes from "Kung Fu", to illustrate this extremely insightful ancient Chinese philosophy. In this clip from the episode called "The Brujo", young Caine is perplexed over the death of a boy who died after being cursed by a sorcerer. Master Po explains that an undiscerning mind sometimes gives life no choice but to fly away. Chapter 50 of the Taoist sacred text the 'Tao Te Ching' affirms 'He who knows how to live has no place for death to enter'. From this verse we can see that a love of life is pivotal in retaining it. A genuine gratitude for existence and an ability to stay light hearted, even in adversity are very favourable traits for longevity. We may find it laughable that a curse could bring about harm. Nevertheless, many outwardly intelligent people fear the wrath of unsubstantiated myths and dogma. Ironically, the stress that results from these beliefs may compromise health, opening us up to the very illnesses and misfortune we fear. In this regard we should all heed the words of Master Po and learn from those who have succumb to stress. Undoubtedly the best way to overcome misinformation, manipulation and illogical fears is by developing a very discerning mind. The required knowledge to develop this can be obtained intuitively from Nature and from the teachings of her greatest devotees. The great teachers of Nature's virtues include Einstein, Buddha, Lao Tzu, David Suzuki, Alan Watts, John Hagelin, Fritjof Capra, Deng Ming-Dao, Benjamin Hoff, The Dalai Lama, Deepak Chopra, Thich Nhat Hahn and Chuang Tzu to name just a few.