NO BEGINNING IS THE BEGINNING is written based on my humble understanding of the works of Laozi, Wenzi, Liezi, Zhuangzi and Huai Nanzi, who are said to have lived about 25 centuries ago as well as by observing and studying the modus operandi of Nature. The works of these Daoist masters are known to be paradoxical, and yet they are a real reflection of the reality we have often forgotten. In fact, Dao DeJing by Laozi is one of the most translated books in contemporary times. "Nature is our birthplace" The doctrine of "Dao" advocates one to live with few desires - to be yourself, simple and natural. In a gracious and perfect society, people do not need to be circumscribed by unnecessary social norms and values. If fame and authority are not highly praised in a society then there will be no disgraceful people. Let plainness manifest, embrace simplicity, reduce selfishness, and hold few desires, as advocated by Daoism which is the best way a society should function. Let all life flourish naturally with no intervention. "Nature is our first teacher" This book advocates one to live in harmony with Nature and its natural laws. Do not attempt to harm Nature unnecessarily just to satisfy your desires for material comfort. Learn to be contented with what you have. Align your life with the Principles of Nature and Nature will control you the least. "Nature is self-regulating with no interference from humankind- "wu wei" or non-action" This book is to bring out the innate nature of people, which is to be generous, humble, and real. We do not have to wear different masks for different occasions. Just be natural and reveal your true self. Be yourself and experience the joy of being. That is the Spirit of Dao.
DR SHEH was a full-time lecturer at Singapore Polytechnic for 10 years (1996-2006). Currently, he is an Associate Lecturer for SIM University or UniSIM (since 2006) and RMIT-SIM (since 2003). Besides, he was the Research Consultant for a higher learning institution in Singapore between 2002 and 2011. He is the Adjunct Research Fellow for University of South Australia supervising 20 doctorate students from Singapore/Malaysia/Hong Kong/China since 2002. To-date, 18 of his doctorate students that he supervised had obtained their doctoral degrees.
