“Melt”

Melting ice is seeking equilibrium. Running water is seeking its level.

When a piece of ice is put into water, it melts. It is only trying to become part of what surrounds it.
When a candle is lit, the wax melts and runs down the sides. It is only seeking its level.
When iron is heated, it melts and becomes liquid. It is only responding to the force upon it.
From observing all these things, we can gain a lesson about Tao.

Just as ice melts, we should learn to adjust to our surroundings. Nothing is possible without first establishing equilibrium.

Just as the candle melts, we must seek the lowest level in a situation. There is no need for struggle. There is no need for worry. When the flaming wick becomes too hot, the candle responds by melting and seeking a lower level.

Just as iron melts, we must be responsive to the forces that act upon us.

We are not supreme in this life: the weather, time, our aging, other people, and pure chance all act upon us. Heated iron melts. It responds to the force put upon it, but it never stops being iron. When it cools, it is still metal. Thus, it both responds and remains true to itself. Those who follow Tao know the importance of combining responsiveness with integrity.

- Deng Ming-Dao