Joseph Campbell, one of the most respected orator, writer, and philosopher in American history was best known for his work in comparative religions and mythology. My husband and I have watched his Power of Myth video series at least once a year since 1989, the first time we saw the series on PBS.

Listening to him be interviewed by Bill Moyers, I was reminded, once again, of his marvelous articulation of the metaphysical side of life through storytelling. Every time I watch him, there’s always something new to ponder. Yes, he is one of my heroes in this wonderful journey. A quote repeated by him in the last of the series says, “The one who thinks he knows, does not know, the one who knows he does not know, knows? Now, isn’t this what the Tao also says?

Those who know they do not know, gain wisdom.
Those who pretend they know, remain ignorant.
Those who acknowledge their weakness, become strong.
Those who flaunt their power will lose it.
Wisdom and Power follow truth above all.
For truth is the way of Tao
(Tao 71)

What do they mean by this? Are we not to speak of ourselves, our talent and skills to live a spiritual life? Hmmm… I do not believe that’s what they meant. First of all, who isn’t spiritual anyways? We all are spiritual by nature regardless, of behavior, education or upbringing. Those things may affect our choices and expressions but they do not affect the person’s spirituality.

As humans, we can never have enough love, or approval, or praise –let’s be honest. So, the tendency is not to ask at the “corner gas station” when we’re confused with directions - we wouldn’t want them to think we cannot read a map, do we? In another case, I was taking an intensive workshop, the instructor was so well-versed of the subject, brilliantly using big words, showing really far out diagrams, and seemingly very impressed with himself that we, the attendants felt intimidated. No one dared to ask any question – nobody wanted to be a candidate for derisive laughs by the crowd. The result? We all came out of the workshop breathless, with a hazy look in our eyes and with a long list of new words to look up. Did I learn anything? Not really.

Here’s the corker… Our generation has been brought up to be competitive, to assert ourselves, to market our skills, knowledge, our job experience. How can one get ahead in their life without being competitive in this society, in this world of economics? Entrepreneurs, politicians, educators, and spiritual leaders included, are all required to be play this game of life. So, what should we do?

I don’t know about you, but I like simple ideas and simple solutions. I try to avoid qualifying myself or quantifying my knowledge for the purpose of gaining approval. Self-assessment is critical – am I at peace with myself when I tell others about me? At the same time, when the need arises I use my personal tools. Knowledge and skills are neutral; they are meant to be used. That’s all.

                                      Hide what you know.
                                                Conceal your talent.
                                                           Shield your light.
                                                                     Bide your time.