Select one part of the Tao, and say why you think it is most important. Then try and add one concept to the Tao and support why it should be added

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Michael Rossi
October 20, 2009
Advanced Placement English Language and Composition
Select one part of the Tao, and describe why you think it is most important. Then try and add one concept to the Tao and support why it should be a part of the Tao. One paragraph each.



Selected part of the Tao: ‘To take no notice of a violent attack is to strengthen the heart of the enemy. Vigour is valiant, but cowardice is vile.’ (Ancient Egyptian. The Pharaoh Senusert III, cit. H. R. Hall, Anceint History of the Near East, p 161)
The significance of this passage is so sublime because the situation it describes is a common pragmatism. Individuals often search for routes in life that steer away from the stormy seas of conflict. For one to see another suffering and consciously tell themselves that they will not help creates insatiable waves of guilt. It is far easier to ignore one’s suffering and convince oneself that they had not actually seen it. One can simply organize the event as part of the natural atmosphere in the back of one’s mind; classifying it as a mere inconvenience instead of a rectifiable issue.

Create an addition to the Tao: Slow the thoughts which are the quickest.
This addition should be a part of the Tao because it will do a great deal to eliminate wrong if people accept it as a value. It is very hard to come to terms with oneself when it comes to accepting that one was wrong. Individuals fabricate excuses in order to alleviate the pressure of guilt. A simple remedy would be consciously note and analyze thoughts which one’s mind would normally remove. If one can be true to themselves they will able to follow their

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consciences more efficiently and leave less room for ignoring the problems that would not make one most delighted to deal with.