Hanna's post -- she had some copmuter difficulty, thus I am reposting it here:

I was an eager magnet to Lao-Tzu’s refrigerator of inspirational philosophies, advice, and guidelines for a “Master”. His epiphanies flow into simple, catchy phrases which could easily be separated and thrown haphazardly into a quote book…and still stir me. It is no wonder it served as a basis for Taoism, and has survived since sixth century B.C.
In fact, the author uses language so powerful that it may be difficult for mesmerized readers to find the intended meaning in them. “If a country is governed with tolerance, the people are comfortable and honest”(part 58), for example, could be translated by some as Lighten up on criminals and there will be less crime. If we peer deeply through the delicate woven lace of words, arguable statements like these may be found.

In the final paragraph of Lao-Tzu (part 80), the author makes statements that are somewhat chilling to me, and possibly others who thrive on life’s experiences. Phrases like, “…don’t waste time inventing labor-saving machines”, “they aren’t interested in travel”, and “delight in the doings of the neighborhood” sound like an elaboration of the old saying, Ignorance is bliss. His words don’t sound harsh, but the idea behind them might be. With a closer look, Lao-Tzu gives the impression that he believes citizens should not be encouraged to seek knowledge, improve life, travel, invent, or experiment. With all of this man’s admirable goals and ideas, what moved him to discourage the practice of horizon-broadening?

Although this aspect of Lao-Tzu’s perspective is slightly unsettling, there is a treasure box of inspiration for anyone who opens his writing. Those seeking leadership positions, as well as ordinary folks, can glean from these writings. He offers fresh insight into human psychology and behavior. He discusses how various actions bring varied results (specifically part 38), predicts how people will respond to steps a leader takes, and describes how a leader can become a “Master”( parts 17, 26, 30, etc.).

Lao-Tzu promotes a sort of Laissez-Faire policy for the government, advising that it places fewer expectations on citizens and stays out of war: “Weapons are tools of violence; all decent men detest them.” (Part 31). He speaks of a stable, selfless leader who will remain in the “center of the circle”(part 19). Concepts that one wouldn’t normally associate with spirituality or philosophy, Lao-Tzu does. He skillfully weaves these theories together with spiritual threads, emphasizing the Tao.

Although Thoughts from the Tao-te Ching could be interpreted in a variety of ways by an assortment of people, I personally have fallen in love with it. The thoughts he has put here are ones I wish I had thought of first! I will push aside any reservations and allow myself to enjoy the intricate embroidery of wisdom Lao-Tzu has created.