The Taoist principle of wu-wei is often falsely translated as “no action.” This can lead to the belief that the ancient Chinese philosophy/religion of Taoism promotes a kind of passive inertia. More accurately, the principle means “actionless action” which suggests we should get out the way to let the Way do its work, i.e., take a natural course of action without interference from the ego.
The above slide is from an ongoing project of mine to translate and apply the great Taoist classic Tao Te Ching to effective teaching leadership. It offers a fair description of the teacher who is generally the guide on the side, and only when necessary, the sage on the stage.
For a more Western reference point, consider Gregory Rineberg’s etymological article about the word “education” in Word Power November 27, 2008:
The literal translation of educate is to draw out of, lead out of, etc. The Romans considered educating to be synonymous with drawing knowledge out of somebody or leading them out of regular thinking.
Whether East or West, the teacher must develop awareness and attention, in order to draw out the student’s own awareness and attention. The resultant learning is more meaningful and natural.
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