Deep roots bring stability.
Spreading leaves bring vitality.
Rising sap brings potency.Tough bark gives security.
Supple boughs give flexibility.
Fecund seeds give continuity.
Sound parts support a healthy whole.
A healthy whole promotes sound parts.
The sage grows like a tree.
Upwards?
Upright!
The Taoist concept of a unified whole arising from the dynamic
interaction of complementary forces or principles
is popularly portrayed by the 'taijitu' or 'yin/yang' symbol,
wherein each half brings or gives part of itself to the other.
Many
manifestations of this idea can be observed in the natural
world; and also in human interactions at several scales.
The common thread is the intimate interdependence or symbiosis
between the 'whole' and the parts which comprise it.
