The White Flag of Wisdom

"Wise men don't need to prove their point;

  men who need to prove their point aren't wise." 

-Tao Te Ching

These words from a Chinese spiritual book resonate deeply within my soul. I think about the way Jesus often responded to accusations-- he asked questions. I can't really think of an instance where he got caught up in a heated debate. He likely stayed away because he knew arguing would be a waste of  his time, and counter-productive to helping someone along. Jesus knew the power behind indirect answers, so he usually told stories...or asked questions...or simply remained silent (like with Pilate).

Jesus modeled this Way of Wisdom for us. He knew that stories open people's hearts in ways that arguments cannot. Arguments get people on the defensive, causing them to retreat to fear-mode. Fear-mode tosses reason out the window and eliminates rational thinking. A defensive posture arises out of a fear of being wrong and then looking silly. However, a story tugs on a person's heart-strings. Stories stir up emotions more than reason. This evocative approach opens one's heart to contemplate another approach. Humor does a similar thing. Laughing makes a person vulnerable and open. These methods give people "ears to hear."

My desire is to leave debate behind, and take up practices like story, humor, or silence. My ego's need to be right will produce an internal struggle at times, especially in that split second where someone challenges my beliefs. But I've made my bed with debate far too often, and it does not provide a restful night's sleep. So, I say, "Cheers to another Way!" Join me if you too are striving to become a wise man or woman. Like the Tao (meaning "The Way") says, "Wise men don't need to prove their point." I think Jesus would agree.