Peace and blessings from Romania, my friends!
I abruptly developed an interest in Daoism after reading "The Way of the Mysterious Dao" (author not-remembered) i.e. a compilation of some Daoist classics, each with its own introductory note and first of which was, ofcourse, the DDJ. Simple and supple... This was a few months ago. I've been doing my best to cultivate the principles espoused therein both in thought and deed (though truth be told I've been focusing on thought-processes more) and I really feel a difference.
Basic background:
Raised Catholic in a deeply faithfull yet non-fanatical environment (my great-grandfather on dad's side studied theology in Rome). A mother displaying a curious blend of sharp reason, unbending logic and mystical insight. (even I can't figure her out; anyone wanna try?). Seriously--my mum is the first Teacher I've had (and a darn good one too ). It's her fascination for the 2008 Olympics that got me into Chinese philosophy in the first place...
Until 16--devoted to traditional Christianity, interested in comparative religion; In love with Tibetan Buddhist ideas of Compassion etc.
16-18--Gnostic Gospels come into the picture-->a need for re-evaluation; a 1-and-a-half year long dive into Islam due to a subconscious wish for a mental safety-net (i.e. the doctrine that the Bible IS holy but it was corrupted so let's just stick to the Qur'an, ok?). First meeting with Sufism on an in-depth level. First meeting with Mahatma Gandhi--VERY deep impression.
18-present: A realisation that books, no matter how holy CANNOT contain Truth in it's entirety; a period of slight lack of direction (not at a total loss but still...). First encounter with Zen Buddhism via an excelent book by a Japanese author ("The History of Zen in China and Japan--doctrine and practice" by Kaiten Nukaria). Enthralled by the vision espoused therein. Then I bought that book on the Dao... And have remained ancored in it's verses ever since
Recently found I-Kuan Tao. Watched many episodes of the well-known "Kung Fu" seriesstaring David Caradine. (lovely show!). Studying Daoism's various aspects.
In light,
Luo