The Tao of Kung Fu #24

Look Beyond the Surface

Learn more about the Shaolin philosophy here................. This is a clip from the "Uncertain Bondage" episode of the 1970's television series "Kung Fu". In this scene young Caine (Radames Pera) is regretting his foolish pride. Master Kan (Philip Ahn) seeks to comfort Caine by reciting chapter 36 of the Taoist text, the Tao Te Ching: "That which shrinks must first expand. That which fails must first be strong. That which is cast down must first be raised. Before receiving there must be giving." This verse reveals that retraction is only possible after expansion. Master Kan uses the words of the sage Lao Tzu to allow young Caine to understand that humility can only come from pride; and wisdom can only come from foolishness. It may seem ironic that we can only evolve from our failings and ignorance. Yet too often pride is the only barrier between our ego and the lessons that are hidden in our poor judgement. The ancient Taoists recognised the greatest of all wisdom is knowing how truly little we actually know. We see most institutions deal with pride by enforcing strict and often brutal discipline. However Master Kan understands, "Before receiving there must be giving"; so the Shaolin master bows to his young student. He explains respect is born from the Nature they share and so to honour another is to also honour oneself. Many of us have high standards of etiquette and politeness that we regularly exchange with others. It isn't necessarily expected of us; nevertheless we expect it from ourselves. It is in this way we are showing a respect for oneself and the Nature we all share. The master goes on to explain to Caine that each of them has qualities that is lacking in the other. He then advises Caine, "Look beyond the surface. See what is real, in yourself and others." For from a position of absolute humility it is obvious that all the differences are in fact superficial; whereas the Nature we all share is undoubtedly inherent. Unfortunately and contrary to all the scientific evidence, many of our number are still unaware of the fundamental reality we all share. Yet if any of us was to be placed alone in the hostile environment of an alien planet, this critical interdependence would become immediately apparent and its absence deeply grieved.