We now call to order the chapter meeting of the Deng Ming-Dao Admiration Society. Our point of discussion for today's meeting is his book, The Way of Heart and Beauty: The Tao of Daily Life. It is a book well worth reading and savoring.
Like many of his other books, Mr. Deng offers small chapters, usually a page or two in length. In this case, he takes writings from three Chinese traditions -- Taoism, Confucianism, and Buddhism. Most of the chapters tell a short story, some almost fables, some offering a brief discussion of some philosophical point, some poetry. They are all interesting, both to compare the three traditions viewpoints as well as to find pearls of wisdom for one's own life.
That said, I rather wish that the author had offered some hints for interpretation of the more esoteric chapters. Perhaps something like what Stephen Mitchell did for his translation of the Tao Te Ching. Or perhaps my heart is not ready to open the nuggets of those chapters yet. In any case, I am sure you will find your own nuggets to treasure in this worthwhile book. Recommended.
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