TAO-TE-CHING: The Way of Virtue in Leadrship and Life

About the Book

"TAO-TE-CHING: The Way of Virtue in Leadership and Life," is a uniquely merged rendering of Taoism’s classic, sacred text. Based upon five respected translations dating from 1944 through 2003, poet and theologian John Ross, Jr. has re-focused his own poetic version upon Taoism’s intrinsic virtues critical for successful contemporary leadership. By preserving the deep wisdom natural to Lao-Tzu’s ancient text, Ross has not only upheld the academic legacy and literary contributions of those translations preceding his, but also provides five appendices of helpful notes, theological scholarship, and reflective commentary. Each of the 81 chapters endeavors to instruct the reader toward acquiring a non-aggressive attitude toward all forms of leadership. For parents, educators, government officials, military leaders, clergy; and especially for those in today’s business world, this new American version is one greatly welcomed. As you surrender to the principles of the Tao, may you embrace the spiritual invitation offered by the Reverend Gail Tapscott in her FORWARD to this inspiring book, one which reminds each of us that: “...as we assimilate and put the teachings of the Tao-Te-Ching and other Taoist wisdom to work in our personal, professional and spiritual life, we must all produce our own version in the end.” In this comprehensive volume, Reverend Tapscott also offers a genuine and enlightening personal journey, which details her early encounters with Taoist principles beginning way back in the the nineteen sixties; and extending to this very decade. In her minsistry as a Harvard trained theologian, college professor, and decades-long minister in the Unitarian Universalist tradition, she offers the reader practical insights highlighting the features of this unique version of Lao-Tzu´s ancient text. Her commentary and theological insights serve as a spiritual guide to those who may be uninitiated in how to incorporate Taoist principles and teachings into their own busy ´digital-driven´ lifestyles. This book is a must for those interested in contemporary spirituality, the relationship of Taoism to the world´s great religions, Asian philosophy, the writings of Confucius, or simply Taoist teachings in general.

About the Author

John Ross, Jr. holds graduate degrees from Boston University (S.T.M., theology), Harvard University (A.L.M, Dramatic Arts); and a third in pastoral theology (M.P.S.) from Loyola University Chicago. John is the author of four poetry collections. His interests include the relationship between science, religion and the fine arts. He teaches at Northeastern Illinois University in Chicago.