Tao and Defiance: My Personal Rite of Passage

Tao and Defiance:

My Personal Rite of Passage

CJ Golden

Defiant. Quite a word: one which usually signifies petulance and negativity. As a girl I was anything but defiant. Yielding to Mother’s every wish and staying true to the course she envisioned out for me was not an easy task.

It was preordained that as I grew older I would live the life that my mother led before me. She showed me the path down which to walk and I dutifully followed.

Yet it was so very painful. Mom had fallen prey to the stereotypes of the time and I, in turn, followed suit. The difficulty of living my life according to her needs became more challenging as I passed into womanhood.

Ensnared by the limitations she placed upon me, I struggled to find a way to break free from her beliefs. There had to be a way to live within societal standards yet remain true to my own unique spirit.

I found the key within the ancient Chinese philosophy of Tao, which teaches us ion according to the natural flow of the universe. Its principles clarified the importance of being faithful to my own needs and desires while maintaining harmony with the world around me.

Taoism translates tothe path and, while its concepts should be obvious, they are often difficult to remember in our daily lives. The principles of the Tao includeTsu jan – life with its challenges and transitions happen of their own accord;Wu Wei) one cannot fight against the natural order of nature;Yin and Yang the balance of opposites in the Universe; andTe the virtue of living up to one’s individual personal qualities or strengths.

Te; that’s the one couldn’t comprehend. I knew I had many strengths and fine qualities but was never allowed to reveal them to myself or the world. I realized I needed more than the understanding of the Tao. I had to finally learn to be defiant.

I had to defy the stereotypes that kept me from uncovering my own unique essence. And I had to defy the self-doubts that held me back from personal success and joy. Not petulance or obstinacy, this defiance I sought came from a place of healing and brought about inner peace and self-esteem.

Having found that place inTao and defiance I now want to share it with you here at Womenxchange. Together let us follow the path as continue to grow in strength, self confidence and joy.

C.J. Golden is a motivational speaker, travels the country inspiring all with her dynamic spirit and vision as she helps others explore their unique journeys through life. She is an increasingly important voice in the field of women’s studies as her message resonates with women and girls everywhere. Following her first book Tao of the Defiant Woman, Tao-Girls around the country had long been anticipating Tao-Girls Rule! – which was published for teens and pre-teen girls in October 2009.

Visit CJ and connect with other Tao-Girls and Tao and defiant women at www.taogirl.com