Taoism is a religion developed in China, but its ideas are applicable to the whole world. Now including China, the world is in the study of Taoism, but there are some questions to which many people do not give the correct answers. For example, what is the core of Taoist beliefs, and what's the use of Taoism?
Wikipedia says that “Taoist propriety and ethics emphasize the Three Jewels of the Tao: compassion, moderation, and humility, while Taoist thought generally focuses on nature, the relationship between humanity and the cosmos; health and longevity; and wu wei (action through inaction). Harmony with the Universe, or the source thereof (Tao), is the intended result of many Taoist rules and practices.”
I think that Wikipedia's description on the Dao, should represent the mainstream for understanding of the Daoism in the Western world. I cannot say that the mainstream is wrong, but I would like to point out that, in terms of truly getting into the Dao, it is not enough to only stay at that level. In the description on Wikipedia, human and natural are still two separate concepts, and it emphasizes a harmony between human and nature. In fact, the essence of the Dao is that human and nature has always been one thing; people just a manifestation of nature, a part of nature. On the other hand, one should find one’s “True Self”. The True Self is beyond the human body, and spiritual. Human body is just a dwelling place for the spirit. Finding the True Self is the primary way which can lead one to the world of Dao. People, who live in the Dao, will stay away from suffering, and enjoy happiness.
