"One who understands others has knowledge; One who understands himself has wisdom; Mastering others requires force; Mastering the self requires strength. If you realize that you have enough, You are truly rich." 33rd Verse, Tao Te Ching. The Tao Te Ching, attributed to the Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu, has been called "the wisest book ever written." Comprised of 81 short verses, it is a book of wisdom that has been translated more than any book in the world, with the exception of the Bible. Many scholars consider this ancient text to be the penultimate discourse on the nature of existence. And it continues to be a valuable resource for achieving a way of life that guarantees integrity, joy, peace and balance. Dr. Wayne Dyer's newest PBS special, "Change Your Thoughts, Change Your Life," is based on his one-year immersion and study of the Tao Te Ching, which was probably written in the sixth century B.C. He now offers a presentation for viewers and readers that speaks to life in the 21st century. His interpretation of the verses continues the tradition of the Tao as a handbook which has helped millions of people find peace while living through turbulent times. In the course of the television special, Wayne encourages viewers to see these verses and ideas as insights into life and nature. The core program will address how, through attending to the ideas of the Tao, it is possible to change one's thoughts on some of the most profound questions and issues confronting us today - and how, by changing those thoughts, our lives will be changed and transformed into a sense of great peace and harmony. One of the concepts to be addressed will be how to change your thoughts from "I want and need more" to "I am living contentedly with what I have" - this is achieved by finding bliss everywhere, and in everyone. In his masterful teaching style, Wayne provides tangible "take-aways" for practicing this concept. Viewers will understand how, by understanding and emulating the qualities of water, they can change from "being rigid and certain, confident and demanding" to being "flowing and allowing, humble and soft" and so can bring about the dramatic achievement of living an unhurried life. In addition, Wayne will lead viewers through lessons to learn how to: # Accomplish more by trying less # Focus on understanding yourself instead of blaming others # Change your life by trusting your ability to respond naturally to the circumstances of your life # Embrace oneness by seeing yourself in everyone you encounter # Learn to tame the ego, and practice radical humility # Remind yourself daily that there is no way to happiness - rather, happiness is the way And as always, all the ideas will be enhanced with Dr. Dyer's signature humor, memorable stories, and thought-provoking imagery. The program will be taped on May 23rd at the California Center for the Arts, in Escondido. The setting is intimate - a four-hundred-seat, sold-out theater. The set evokes a meditation garden, peaceful and lush. The home audience will be entranced and astonished by the wisdom being presented.
