Inspired by Tao Te Ching chapter 68, and drawing from our work with sport stadium security, elementary students, comedy show door work, and event lead roles with concerts, we discuss the idea that the best warrior is not warlike. Even if you don't usually vibe with this, consider listening to this show to learn a bit about the art of de-escalation. We also discuss an interesting candidate for "Tao Surfer Ranch 2.0" that we checked out in the desert windy roads of historic Route 66.

We explore the ways in which New Age spiritualities and gurus might lead to disengagement from issues that matter in the world. Using chapter 67 of the Tao Te Ching, we contrast this with an engaged spirituality based on minimalism, compassion, and the way of non-domination. We also mention the potential problems with karmic thinking in Ram Dass and the value of a non-dogmatic inspiration from Jesus and his brother James on the importance of concern for the poor and downtrodden.

We attempt to weave together the history of Route 66 (The Mother Road) and Tao Te Ching chapter 66 in order to answer a listener question. Whether we pull it off or not, we at least address a few key ways in which the Tao Te Ching can shed light on global issues of our day, especially the ways in which economic injustice globally can bring insecurity and chaos to our local communities. There's a discussion also of whether a libertarian socialist society is even possible in our age.