Return to the One

What has happened to this world? Look around, and the problems are hard to ignore. Wars and conflicts continue; tragic events are ceaseless. Work is stressful, livelihood is difficult, and family relationships can become complicated. Life has become a struggle for survival rather than a journey of fulfillment. Why has human existence strayed so far from its inherent potential? With these concerns, this book explores the root causes of our personal, social, and global unrest.This book is for readers who: Perceive the problemsFeel the stress of work and the pressure of making a living.Feel troubled by tragic events, conflicts, and wars around the world.Have concerns about society, government, AI, and the future of the world. Try to understand What is the fundamental problem of our society?Why are work and everyday life becoming more difficult?Why do wars and conflicts continue, and what is behind the tension between major capitalist countries and China?How is AI changing our world and the future of human civilization? Seek answers forWhat is the purpose of our lives in a world where so many things seem wrong?What is the mission of governments, and what can they do?What kind of world should we build? What is the future for humanity?This book is divided into two major chapters: Chapter of Transcendence: A Journey of the Spirit and Chapter of Engagement: A Discourse on the World.The first chapter focuses on the spiritual perspective. It asks the most basic questions: Who are we as human beings? What is the purpose of life? How are we connected to nature, our loved ones, and all living beings?The second chapter focuses on the material perspective. It looks at how the world is structured and how social systems affect our lives, and explores issues related to civilization advancement, hierarchical systems, ideologies, wars and conflicts, money, capital, religion, and AI.If the first chapter does not immediately resonate with you, feel free to begin with the second. I placed the spiritual chapter first and the material second because this is how I understand the world now. The spiritual and the material are like yin and yang: Whether you begin with yin and move toward yang, or begin with yang and return to yin, either way works.This book is not about Daoism, nor is it intended to promote any religion or belief. Dao is simply a name. It refers to the universal law and principle through which the world takes form and operates. The meaning behind it matters the most, not the name.Words possess power, but they also have limitations. When people develop a comprehensive understanding of Dao, themselves, and the world, the purpose of this book is fulfilled. The same applies to Dao. When people truly become one with it, Dao itself can dissipate. At that time, Dao both exists and does not.This book serves as a guide. Take what is useful, and leave behind what no longer serves. Let this book be a beginning, rather than an ending. Let the process of practice be an unfolding of your true nature, rather than the following of a prescribed path.