Please write me a reply to my classmate answer on this discussion question below. Do you agree.

Classmates 1.

Tao is kind of a path that human beings ought to follow in a bid to live a fulfilled life which aligns to the natural world. According to the poems, Tao was meant to show that what may seem weak or void can in the long-run be useful. The words in the poems seek to illuminate the goodness of humanity and how we should go with that flow. Tao Te Ching suggests that we should live a life of selflessness. We should not struggle to seek affirmation but do what brings about a feeling of accomplishment and you will be admirable. In addition, we should treat people with utmost care and love without expecting something in return for nature also serves us right and without prejudice. We should also appreciate everything no matter how empty it may seem because something great can come out of it. Living such a life means we are not only in synchrony with ourselves but also the universe.

Classmates 2.

According to the Tao Te Ching, the nature of the Tao is to follow what is natural and simple. The Tao is everlasting and never dies. They call it the great mother that is in everything and nourishes everything. It is detached from all things, yet one with them. According to our e-text, Dao (Tao) is the name for whatever mysterious reality makes nature to be what it is and to act the way it does (Molloy, 2017, pg. 208). It is hard to describe what the Tao really is, but my interpretation is like energy surrounding us. This energy is everywhere but cannot be seen; however, we can experience it if we let go of the unnecessary things in life; being content with our simple selves.

The Tao Te Ching suggests that we should live our lives in unity with nature and people without force. We should not fight against nature because eventually, nature will take its natural course; therefore, we must be in harmony for what comes. We need to leave behind our individual desires, concerns, and strains. Moreover, we should only have according to our needs and eliminate anything that is unnecessary; experiencing, accepting, and following the path with peace and simplicity.

Classmates 3.

The Tao is stated in the e-text as, "The mysterious origin of the universe, which is present and visible in everything.", (Molloy, 2017). The fourth poem states, "The Tao is like a well: used but never used up... It is hidden but always present. I don't know who gave birth to it. It is older than God" (S. Mitchell). The Tao Te Ching says that the nature of the Tao accepts things as they are. For example, the eighth quote states, "The supreme good is like water, which nourishes all things without trying to.", (S. Mitchell).

The Tao Te Ching suggests that we should live in content and be ourselves. For example, the eighth quote states, "When you are content to be simply yourself and don't compare or compete, everybody will respect you.", (S. Mitchell). It explains how when in conflict to be fair and generous, when in work: do what you enjoy, and when with family: to be present. I agree with what the Tao Te Ching suggests about how we should live, and I believe it has simplicity. Our relationship to nature should be to accept things how they are present, appreciate what we have. Our relationship with others should be content; being ourselves speaks the truth. This saying was always said to me while growing up, "Treat others how you want to be treated." I still live by this and promote this to others as well.