If you would seek your true self:
Begin with simplicity,
Overcome your desire for false adornments,
And embrace the nature of the uncarved block.
~ Lao Tzu
The uncarved block is a metaphor representing potential and what is possible. It is also a caution against self-imposed limits.
May we be like the uncarved block at all times, being the material ready to be shaped and used as needed.
Braun Jr., John; Tzu, Lao; von Bargen, Julian; Warkentin, David (2012-12-02). Tao Te Ching (Kindle Locations 317-321). . Kindle Edition.
Find Your Middle Ground 
My self imposed limits need sorting out, Val! I like the idea of being open for what is.
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It all begins with simplicity. I like the idea of letting go of all the complexity we add … And connecting to the essence of what we are without this thoughts. Thanks for being here Tom 💛
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Lovely metaphor thank you 🍁
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It reminds me of being a hollow flute. Ready to have what is needed played through us.
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I love this analogy Mary. Thank you 💛
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Hi Val, interesting one! I hover at the edge a little just in case there is any question of being shaped and used in a negative sense as can happen so easily.
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I think we all have that self protection thing Jean… Until we realize the edge isn’t an edge at all.
Thank you for being here Jean ❣
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I guess a few times very badly bitten has led to the caution. Unfortunately there are some devious users out there amongst the good. x
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👍
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😍
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This is awesome, Val! xo
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Thank you Jill ❣so glad you enjoyed. xo
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I love the idea that I will never be a finished product. I will always grow and change and improve and even at my “best”, I have potential… how much more at my worst 🙂
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We are all evolving and trying to find the balance of our lives. Thank you for being here 💛
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It really does begin with simplicity. Thanks for the reminder, and profound quote, Val~~
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So glad you enjoyed it Jet.
“it can be that simple” is a favorite mantra of mine. 💕
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Thank you for these lovely thoughts, Val. They are so refreshing. 🙂
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Thank you Kelly for your kindness and presence 💛
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Always, Val. xo
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Lovely post Val. We need to find back to the raw an unshaped to find ourselves, as we really are, before the society kicked in. From there it seems to be more easy to stay with the simplicity. Enjoy a beautiful day Val ❤
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Thank you Irene for your wise words. Getting back to our essence and rawness allows the complexities and burdens to fall away. 💕
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Familiar with the uncarved block, but love the hollow flute not seen before. I find the letting go the most difficult, when I think I’m there I realise I’m still holding on … so I need to sort out those unmindful moments! Ha, ha 🙂 Love, David
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Beautiful Rock and words of wisdom Val 🙏🏻Thankyou
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Love this metaphor!
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