Timeless Wisdom

Authenticity and Sincerity

In dealing with people, we already have the perfect model
of behavior inside us.  Just act sincerely, in accordance
with your true nature.  Do not do to others what you would
not want done to you.
			Tzu-tsu
			The Central Harmony

Confucius said: "Sincerity is the way of heaven; arriving
at sincerity is the way of man.  The sincere person does
the right thing without trying, understands the truth
without thinking, and acts always in keeping with the Tao."

Sincerity is the fulfillment of our own nature, and
to arrive at it we need only follow our true self.
Sincerity is the beginning and end of existence; without
it, nothing can endure.  Therefore the mature person values
sincerity above all things.

Sincerity is not only the fulfillment of our own being;
it is also the quality through which all beings are fulfilled.
When we fulfill our own being, we become truly human;
when we fulfill all beings, we arrive at true understanding.
These qualities -- humanity and understanding -- are inherent
in our nature, and by means of them we unite the inner and
the outer.  Thus, when we act with sincerity, everything we
do is right.
			Tzu-tsu
			The Central Harmony