Wayne Dyer: Change Your Thoughts, Change Your Life – Chapter 72

Chapter 72: Living with Awe and Acceptance

“When they lose their sense of awe, people turn to religion.
When they no longer trust themselves, they begin to depend upon authority.
Therefore the Master steps back, so that people won’t be confused.
She teaches without a teaching, so that people will have nothing to learn.”

— Tao Te Ching, Verse 72

In this verse, Lao Tzu shares a powerful truth: awe is the natural state of the soul. When people lose their innate reverence for life—its mystery, beauty, and sacred unfolding—they often seek externally: in rigid belief systems, in figures of authority, or in systems that promise certainty.

Wayne Dyer interprets this as a reminder that true spiritual power lies not in control, force, or doctrine, but in surrendering to the wonder of life as it is. Living with awe means appreciating the miraculous nature of existence and accepting that we do not need to have all the answers.

The Taoist master does not force or impose. She trusts the Tao to move through others in their own time. She teaches by example—by her presence, humility, and stillness.

Key Teachings

• Awe is the gateway to deep spiritual connection.
• Loss of reverence often leads to dependency on outer authorities.
• The truest teaching is lived, not preached.
• Acceptance of “what is” brings peace and trust in the Tao.
• Step back; allow others to find their own truth.

Actionable Steps: Living with Awe and Acceptance

1. Practice Wonder Daily
   • Pause to notice the sky, a flower, your breath, the smile of a child.
   • Say to yourself: “This moment is sacred.”
2. Let Go of Needing to Fix Others
   • If someone is struggling, don’t rush to correct or “save” them.
   • Trust the Tao within them. Ask: “How can I model peace instead of preach it?”
3. Detach from Dogma
   • Reflect on any beliefs or systems you may cling to out of fear or habit.
   • Ask: “Is this helping me experience awe, or limiting it?”
4. Accept What Is, Without Resistance
   • When facing discomfort, try this affirmation:
     “Even this has a place in the mystery of life.”
   • Let go of needing things to be different to feel peace.
5. Step Back in Leadership
   • If you’re in a guiding role, practice stepping back. Let others grow by experience.
   • Teach by being, not by controlling.

Mantra for Living with Awe and Acceptance

“I trust the flow of life. I open to wonder and accept what is.”