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When I am about to make such a stand, I guard against any diminution of my vital power. I first reduce my mind to absolute quiescence. Three days in this condition, and I become oblivious of any reward to be gained. Five days, and I become oblivious of any fame to be acquired. Seven days, and I become unconscious of my four limbs and my physical frame. Then, with no thought of the Court present to my mind, my skill becomes concentrated, and all disturbing elements from without are gone.
Source Chuang Tzu, chapter 19, §10 · 📖 Read the full passage
✨ To meditate on today
According to Chuang Tzu, the sculptor K'ing, commissioned to make a stand for bells for the Marquis of Lu ("your Highness"), recollects himself for several days: little by little he forgets rewards, the hope of success and the fear of failure, until he feels the right moment to act. Today, before a task that matters, take a few breaths, set down your expectation of the result and begin when you feel calm.
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