Lao Tzu is a major figure in Chinese philosophy. He is widely recognised as the founding father of Taoism.
One of his most famous quotes is:
"A journey of a thousand miles starts with a single step."
The impact of this marvelous quote arises from the fact that it is applicable to a wide range of different types of situations where something needs to be done. It is not restricted to physically travelling. There are many other examples of proverbs in which there is an inherent stress on taking the first step towards a goal. This first step is manifested in many ways; it could also be the letter 'L' on a blog!
The force of this quote lies in its final word.
What I find most inspirational in this quote is that it holds so much meaning in such little words. This alone is something which sets one on a journey of intellect and meaning.
One can find meaning in the most insignificant things, but when one does find meaning within them, do they remain insignificant?
Recently, in my journey I have learnt something which puts life into perspective. Just as a staircase constitutes of many sequences of steps in order for one floor to be connected to another. if one wants to climb the entire building, he must traverse each floor and the multiple steps between each one to do so.
Our journey of a thousand miles also has many stops and starts, each containing withing it a plethora of miniature journeys. Sometimes we think we have reached a climax where we feel spiritually resigned and put life on cruise control. We seldom remember the whole building of life and hence our journey through it.
Anne Frank said:
"How wonderful is it that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world."
Those who want to change the world can do so while those who look on will one day be inspired, perhaps by a random blog, to take the first step and begin their own journey of a thousand miles.
The longest path may prove to be the shortest, in the end.
