Taoism Blog

Benjamin Hoff wrote the Tao of Pooh to try to explain the essence of Taoism through "Winnie the Pooh". By observing the actions of Eeyore, Piglet, Rabbit, Owl, Tigger, and Pooh, he decides that the action of the character Pooh best describes Taoism. After reading this book I have a much better understanding of the fundamentals of Taoism. This book is very educational and  it makes you wonder if the whole story of Pooh and his friends was constructed around this Taoist outlook on life. Each character reflects an aspect of society.  I found this book a very enjoyable read with very good examples pulled from the works of A.A. Milne that correlated to Taoist theory.

I completely agree with the way Hoff critiques American Culture. The Taoist believes that always being is not a good thing. He uses Rabbit to explain this theory. Rabbit is always in a hurry, being a bisy backson.  "Bisy Backson" confuses exercise with work and activity with creativity. "The Bisy Backson is almost desperately active," (p. 93) says Benjamin Hoff. He adds, "Let's put it this way: if you want to be healthy, relaxed, and contented, just watch what a Bisy Backson does and then do the opposite." Often, in Western Society, we focus on the final product before we have begun the journey. When Pooh considers what he likes best in the world, he decides the "...moment ..." I think it is very important to not worry so much and take time to enjoy your surroundings. We get so consumed in our work that being busy is stressful and its important to stay content in the present moment.  When we take the time to enjoy our surroundings and appreciate being alive, we find that we have no time to be Bisy Backsons anymore. But that’s all right, because being Bisy Backsons is a tremendous waste of time (p. 113). 

I think by using the Taoist beliefs as a solution could really help our culture. I think it would do everyone some good to slow down and take in the present moment. By not being so busy all the time it can truly help people’s character and how they interact with others. Life can be more positive for everyone with a little Taoist insight.