The ETOH-Free Chronicles #5: The Natural-Born Taoist - How TGBY and Taoism Became The Twin Pillars of Scott's Life

Two Philosophies, One Purpose: Unpacking how Scott discovered he's a natural-born Taoist and how this, coupled with 'The "Gently, Bentley!" Way', serves as a formidable duo for a life well-lived.

In this fifth instalment, we'll explore the life-altering day when Scott realised his intrinsic alignment with Taoism. Already a steadfast practitioner of 'The "Gently, Bentley!" Way', he finds the ancient teachings of Taoism a perfect fit. The philosophies unite, providing him with the tools for an enriched and fulfilled life—so long as he always remembers the twin pillars that support him.

Taoism

Life often has a funny way of handing us the keys to doors we didn't know existed. For Scott, one of these keys appeared in the form of an old, dusty book on Taoism he found while cleaning out his loft. As he flicked through the worn pages, it was as though he found a mirror to his soul. Each teaching, each line resonated with him in a way no other spiritual text had before.

It is with great sadness that we have to report that Dan Docherty passed away on 9th December 2021. His memory lives on through this website, his articles, videos, podcasts and in the hearts, minds and teaching of his many students and friends throughout the world.If you are looking for a teacher in this style, then please visit “Where to Learn” “Instructor Listings” page as although this is not being kept up to date it will provide contact details for a number of his main students.The PTCCI practitioners Facebook page is useful should you have questions

(Source of TEXT ABOVE: Events & Competitions of the Tai Chi Chuan Website, that I sadly stumbled upon in the hope of booking a training week under Dan at some point in the future. Only in the UK, rather than France, where I trained last time for a solid week - and in the Winter, rather than summer - as I know how hot I get training all day every day for a week solid, lol.)(Click this link to learn all about Tai Chi Chuan in a new tab)

The Tao, or 'The Way', seemed to parallel the core principles he'd been living by through TGBY. Both philosophies championed balance, harmony, and a gentle approach to life's challenges. Both encouraged embracing the natural flow of events, whether they be ups or downs, as integral parts of the journey.

However, the Tao also introduced new elements that could enrich Scott's existing practices—ideas like 'Wu Wei', the art of 'non-action', a teaching that encouraged letting things unfold naturally, without force. 

This was like adding a turbocharger to his already efficient engine of life management skills.

With this newfound wisdom, Scott found himself more peaceful, more balanced. His daily routines took on a meditative quality. Whether he was making his famous roast, devising a strategy for managing customer relations in his administrative roles, or simply enjoying a walk in the park, each action was performed with a sense of purpose and serenity.

Finding Taoism wasn't just another chapter in Scott's life; it was like discovering a missing piece of a puzzle he'd been subconsciously trying to solve for years. It complemented his 'The "Gently, Bentley!" Way' philosophy beautifully, forming a robust framework for a life full of depth and meaning. 

Scott now knew that as long as he remembered and adhered to these twin pillars, the sky wasn't the limit; it was just the beginning.

The important aspect to all of this is, of course - TGBY is an actual thing! Whereas Taoism is a philosophy and therefore humankind made.

Taoism

'The "Gently, Bentley!" Way'

Comedy