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Whoever relies on the Tao in governing men
doesn’t try to force issues
or defeat enemies by force of arms.
For every force there is a counterforce.
Violence, even well intentioned,
always rebounds upon oneself.

The Master does his job
and then stops.
He understands that the universe
is forever out of control,
and that trying to dominate events
goes against the current of the Tao.

Because he believes in himself,
he doesn’t try to convince others.
Because he is content with himself,
he doesn’t need others’ approval.
Because he accepts himself,
the whole world accepts him.

Tao Te Ching by Lao Tsu, trans. by Stephen Mitchell

Sinologists and translators Roger T. Ames and David L. Hall write this verse is about military philosophy. What is the role, the function of military force in the conduct of affairs? According to the way-making of the Tao, – force is to be minimized. And yet the passage is no endorsement of pacifism. Circumstances may indicate the exercise of force is the only means to reduce added violence, to prevent accumulation of loss. As last resort then – using force is imperative. Force as a “last resort” tool is the message of a way-making Tao.

The way-of-things always, by definition is out-of-control, or expressed differently, “have a life of its own.” Nature suggests to take measure of the flow, to read the current, then do and let what is done be enough. Coercion, exercising resources to manipulate, to “shove” things to advantage, results in a countervailing opposing reaction. 

Then, what is called for? The rule-of-thumb is “development”, cultivating belief in one’s efficacy, one’s competence in the circle of influence, the zones of care that constitute one’s life. Belief, contentment, and acceptance are key. Am I Ok with my role and place of habitation in space and in time? To the way-making of the Tao this is an oblique alternative to insisting upon one’s way by threat or by the exercise of naked force.

To conclude an ideal is proposed. Imagine a condition of excellence, a degree of satisfaction with the zone of one’s life that results in validation by external reality, acknowledgement by those who traditionally oppose us… 

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Reader, how much imagination is needed to test our American society, a society that elects an outlaw-king? …that stands as the obverse to the Tao?

No imagination at all!