Nurture

We can easily be deceived by the illusion of control. To understand the principle of agency we must develop the wisdom to perceive what is an appropriate use of our effort. The modern world has made this especially difficult because we are surrounded by machines that are built to do exactly as we command them (and even they frequently malfunction). We cannot control our relationships or other people. Whether it be our relationship to the earth, the elements, our neighbors, our friends, our family, or our God, it is through respect, patience, care, gratitude, and believing that we nourish our association. The use of agency is an act of faith essential to creation. Ugui, the Kung Fu master from the movie "Kung Fu Panda," teaches this principle to his student Shifu.

Ugui: Look at this tree, Shifu. (Indicates the Peach Tree of Heavenly Wisdom) I cannot make it blossom when it suits me, nor make it bear fruit before its time.

Shifu: But there are things we can control! (Slams a fist into the tree, making several peaches fall) I can control when the fruit will fall! (A peach then hits him on the head, unnerving him, then he catches a peach, cuts it in half, takes the pit and slams it into the ground) And I can control where to plant the seed! That is no illusion, Master!

Ugui: Ah, yes. But no matter what you do, that seed will grow to be a peach tree. You may wish for an apple or an orange, but you will get a peach.

Shifu: But a peach cannot defeat Tai Lung!

Ugui: Maybe it can - if you are willing to guide it, to nurture it, to believe in it. (Covers the seed with dirt, thus beginning its growth.)

Shifu: I need your help, Master.

Ugui: No. You just need to believe. Promise me, Shifu. Promise me you will believe.

Shifu: I...I will...try.