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Corey Farr

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The Corey PodcastThe Corey Podcast"Fast Food Frenzy: Unwrapping the Dangers of Addiction"Send us a textIn this episode of "Frankly Speaking," Corey takes a closer look at the growing issue of fast food addiction. Discover the health risks, psychological impacts, and financial strains associated with a fast food-dependent lifestyle. Corey shares practical tips for breaking the cycle and making healthier choices. Join the conversation and learn how to reclaim control over your eating habits and well-being.You will hear the voice of Ben Farr, from his video documentary, "Why You Can't Stop Eating Junk Food". Listen in its entirety @Youtube.comSupport the show2024-08-2214 minTravis & D’MarcoTravis & D’MarcoHR 2: The Takeover ContinuesIf we didn't work in this industry what would career path be? What if Sli is interviewing for the Lakers job? Travis will meet with a friend of his son to talk about our industry. The Dodgers have not made a ton of mistakes and one of them was here the past 3 days. Did they get it wrong by not going strong after Corey Seager? The Producer Emily Takeover Continues and this time instead of FACT or CAP she will do RADIO TINDER! and we talk about Travor Lawrence as he got paid. What does it mean for the...2024-06-1454 minCrossroads Blues RADIOCrossroads Blues RADIOEpisodio 348 "Blues Music Awards Nominees"Crossroads Blues Radio. Episodio del 17 de Marzo de 2023. Episodio dedicado a las Nominadas y los Nominados a los Blues Music Awards 2023, en los apartados: “Álbum Acústico”, “Álbum del Año”, “Artista Femenina de Blues Tradicional”, y “Artista Masculino de Blues Tradicional”, con música de cada nominada y nominado: Billy Branch, Buddy Guy, Charlie Musselwhite, Corey Harris, Deitra Farr, Diunna Greenleaf, Duke Robillard, Duwayne Burnside, Harrison Kennedy, John Nemeth, John Primer, Johnny Burgin, Rhiannon Giddens, Rory Block, Shemekia Copeland, Sue Foley, Sugar Ray, The Love Light Orchestra, Bonus Track: canción “Take Your Time” con Ben Levin (nominado en el apartado: Instrumentali...2023-03-191h 29Crossroads Blues RADIOCrossroads Blues RADIOEpisodio 348 "Blues Music Awards Nominees"Crossroads Blues Radio. Episodio del 17 de Marzo de 2023. Episodio dedicado a las Nominadas y los Nominados a los Blues Music Awards 2023, en los apartados: “Álbum Acústico”, “Álbum del Año”, “Artista Femenina de Blues Tradicional”, y “Artista Masculino de Blues Tradicional”, con música de cada nominada y nominado: Billy Branch, Buddy Guy, Charlie Musselwhite, Corey Harris, Deitra Farr, Diunna Greenleaf, Duke Robillard, Duwayne Burnside, Harrison Kennedy, John Nemeth, John Primer, Johnny Burgin, Rhiannon Giddens, Rory Block, Shemekia Copeland, Sue Foley, Sugar Ray, The Love Light Orchestra, Bonus Track: canción “Take Your Time” con Ben Levin (nominado en el apartado: Instrumentali...2023-03-191h 29A Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingWant to help? Support my ministry (and cover hosting fees) at Buy Me a Coffee! :)Since the show is "finished" (for now), the Patreon site is no longer active. However, there are still hosting costs, and I still have expenses! If you would like to show gratitude with a small donation in a very easy way, you can do so at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crttc. No account creation required!Support the show2022-07-0202 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingIn conclusion... (chapter 81)After two and a half years, we've reached the very last episode of the Tao te Ching! I'm not sure what's next for me, but at least for now, I'll stop regular posting here as I focus on some other pressing things in life and brainstorm possible future ideas. This chapter is a nice summary of three of the key themes of the Tao te Ching that we've focused on in these last few years:1. Wisdom over learning2. Using too many words3. The selfless idealSee more and contact me at www.c...2022-06-1946 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingMinimalism and the Taoist utopia (chapter 80)Chapter 80 presents Lao Tzu's vision of the ideal society, the "Taoist utopia". Although it is not a "realistic" picture at first glance, writing it off would be a big mistake. The chapter not only praises minimalism and simple living, but also contains a thinly veiled but cutting cultural critique that is just as relevant today as it was 2600 years ago.1. The simple life - minimalism and Christian activist Shane Claiborne's "Irresistible Revolution"2. The cultural critique - overpopulation, overdevelopment, industrialization, and insatiable desires3. A clarification - is this chapter really idolizing a boring, antisocial...2022-05-2237 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingPeace is worth the risk (chapter 79)We're skipping chapter 78 since we looked at it all the way back in episode 6! Chapter 79 is focused on the complex repercussions of human conflict. This is a shorter episode, and I'll split it into just two pieces:1. "Just let it go" - conflict resolution the Taoist way2. Peace is worth the risk - Christ as the ultimate exampleSee more at www.coreyfarr.comSupport the show2022-05-0225 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingThe "Robin Hood" TaoChapter 77 describes the Tao as being like the drawing of a bow, where the top is brought down and the bottom is brought up. It is a cultural critique about how the way of man tends to upset the natural balance of things. The episode will have three general thematic movements:1. Equilibrium and balance in the universe and in our lives2. The "Robin Hood effect" - taking from the rich and giving to the poor3. Lao Tzu's static equilibrium versus Christ's redemptive restorationHere's the blog entry I quote from: https...2022-04-1741 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingThe meek shall inherit the EarthChapter 76 takes us back to the familiar territory of "weakness" that is actually strength. Living things are soft, supple, flexible, and "weak". Dead things are hard, brittle, rigid, and "strong". I'll start this episode by sharing about one of the most influential - and meek - men I've ever known. Then we'll break it up into two basic sections:1. Meekness and humility as true strength2. Adaptability as the key to lifeSupport the show2022-03-2742 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingGreed - the "uniquely human problem"In this episode, we look at chapter 75, which critiques the greedy leadership of Lao Tzu's China or any government in general. I'll start with reading from Jesus's parable of the foolish rich man as well as his famous words on "where your treasure is, there will your heart be also." The rest of the episode is pretty simply divided into two parts:1. Greed in leadership2. Greed in in general terms in our daily lives and the dangers of greed creeping up on us as we start to accumulate even a little bit of extra money2022-03-1329 minCPA Trendlines PodcastsCPA Trendlines PodcastsCorey Schmidt on Re-Inventing Your Firm – The Disruptors with Liz Farr for CPA TrendlinesThe Disruptors with Liz FarrSee more here: https://cpatrendlines.com/?p=94934Corey Schmidt's Take-AwaysOffer your staff different paths to being successful.Pinpoint the talents you have on your staff, and nurture those special skills.Carve out time for people to work on those skills, not just the backlog.Challenge your people earlier in their careers so they have three years of experience rather than one year repeated three times.Create roles for the kinds...2022-03-0525 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingInterview with author Doruk CansevDoruk Cansev is a life coach and author of the book Balanced: Unleashing the Power of your Personality, which I used as the inspiration for the structure of episode 59. I also covered my notes on his book much more in-depth on the most recent Patreon members exclusive episode. Today we discuss Taoism a bit, but we dive deep into his books and discuss finding balance in all areas of your life.Support the show2022-02-2054 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingJudgment and the death penalty (chapter 74)In this episode, we look at chapter 74, which is a bit different in tone and content than other chapters around it. The central focus is the fear of death, and the central metaphor is the "Master Executioner" - whose job we should not try to take. We'll look at a literal interpretation first, followed by a more spiritualized/metaphorical one.1. The death penalty - Lao Tzu and Shane Claiborne2. Fear and judgment in religion3. Do not judge othersSee more at www.coreyfarr.comSupport the show2022-02-0636 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingThe seven spectra of a balanced lifeHere's an outline to help follow this complex episode!Today we'll look at chapter 73, which seems a bit disconnected and confusing at first (which is why it took me two extra weeks to prepare). We'll touch on a few side topics, then we'll spend the majority of the book relating this chapter's idea of perfect wu wei to the seven areas of balance identified by independent author Doruk Cansev in his new book Balanced: Unleash the Power of your Personality.You can find Doruk's book here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09157T1MH/ref...2022-01-2243 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te Ching"Fear not" - the danger of fear as a motivatorChapter 72 doesn't really offer an obvious interpretation at the first reading. The variations between translations and the disjunctions between the sections makes it a bit complex. Fortunately, there is a common theme that the most traditional interpretations tend to agree on, and then as always we will take a bit of liberty and move in a more creative and relatable direction. I start the episode sharing some thoughts about fear as a basic emotion and my own experience with panic attacks, then I work through the chapter from two approaches:1. Leaders should not use fear as a...2021-12-2640 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingKnow that you don't know! / Ecclesiastes as Taoist confession (chapter 71)Chapter 71 is cryptic, obscure, and one of my absolute favorites. This chapter continues the theme on knowledge from the previous chapter, but focuses especially on ignorance - the fact that we are all ignorant in so many ways, and that not knowing that we don't really know is not just bad, it's a spiritual sickness. I open with a confession of my own ignorance, then divide my interpretation into three sections:1. Simple knowledge and personal development - Know how much you don't know, or you will stagnate2. Social/relational knowledge in a world of information-overload...2021-12-1237 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingToo smart to understand (chapter 70)In this episode, we look at chapter 70, which is one of the most depressing and least didactic/informative chapters in the Tao te Ching (which is why it took me an extra week to prepare this). Here we have Lao Tzu break into a quasi-lament on how no one understands him or follows his teachings, despite how simple they are to understand. With some careful maneuvering, I think we can actually find some parallels to the "simple" yet difficult teachings of Jesus about the narrow way to the Kingdom of Heaven.See more at www.coreyfarr.com2021-11-2840 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingLao Tzu's war advice - and honoring the image of God in others (chapter 69)In this episode, we look at chapter 69, which is incredibly tough to deal with since it is primarily focused on giving advice to military generals. As a Jesus-follower committed to nonviolence, I didn't know what to do with it at first, but with some clever maneuvering and use of paraphrases, I was able to bring it around to something more Christlike. 1. Literally analyzing the chapter - Lao Tzu's "almost" non-violent military strategy2. Losing the three jewels3. Honoring the image of God in our "enemies"See more at www.coreyfarr.com2021-11-0735 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingCompassion conquers all (chapter 67)In this episode, we look at the famous chapter 67, where Lao Tzu presents the "Three Jewels" - the entire Taoist ethics summed up in three words: compassion, moderation, and humility. I'll start by sharing about how Christ's compassion demonstrates the compassion that God built into the way the universe works and the way people work. Then we'll look at each of the three jewels one by one:1. The countercultural nature of the Three Jewels2. Compassion as the source of bravery3. Moderation as the source of generosity4. Humility as the source of leadership...2021-10-2432 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingLeading from behind (chapters 66 and 68)In this episode, we look at chapters 66 and 68, which continue the train of thought of non-contention and wu wei that we started last week, but this time in relation to leadership. I'll start with talking about the characteristics of servant leadership, then focus on the chapters one by one:1. Chapter 66 - the best leaders take the attitudes of servants and "lead from behind"2. Chapter 68 - the attitude of non-contention and mutually beneficial "competition"See more at www.coreyfarr.comSupport the show2021-10-1037 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingI was sick! Back to normal next weekSorry for no episode this week. I was down for the count with the flu last week. (Not COVID!) Head on over and subscribe at the Patreon page to get early access to the next episode. :)Support the show2021-10-0402 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingThe path of least resistance - the "great secret" to an effective lifeIn this episode, we look at chapter 63, which is all about tasks and problems. I'll start by talking about how learning how to break big tasks into small pieces has radically transformed my life, then we'll break down the chapter into two main sections:1. A "mini-sermon" on wu wei (action without action) through a series of paradoxes2. The active/decisive side of wu wei, or "the path of least resistance"- Lessons from the universe- The path of the wise man- A warning against underestimating the difficulties of problems...2021-09-1941 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingThe good, the bad, and the sinful (chapter 62)In this episode, we look at chapter 62, which is one of the only chapters where Lao Tzu compares good and bad people and the ONLY chapter where he uses a word often translated as "sin". I'll start by talking about how radically countercultural and even offensive Jesus's teachings of enemy-love are in the Middle Eastern culture I work in, then we'll take a look at three aspects of this chapter:The Tao (and Christ) as treasure to the good and refuge to the badDo not abandon a bad person (and what even IS a bad person?)Hopeful universalism...2021-09-0534 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingGetting back to normal this week!Support the show2021-09-0301 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingExclusive: What is the ultimate question? The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, Buddha, and the CrossAs I'm away for the summer, I'll be sharing some episodes from my Patreon exclusive feed, which are available to all subscribers at the $5/month level or higher. Here are the original show notes:A wild journey prompted by a ridiculous plot line from one of my favorite book series of all time. How much divine revelation is embedded in creation? Is this revelation sufficient for "salvation" for those who have never heard the message of Christ? What is the ultimate question to the meaning of life, and how should we go about finding the answer to...2021-08-1638 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingExclusive: Compare and contrast - the empty bowl/childlike faith in the TTC and the GospelsAs I'm away for the summer, I'll be sharing some episodes from my Patreon exclusive feed, which are available to all subscribers at the $5/month level or higher. This was the very first ever exclusive, and I hope you enjoy! Here are the original show notes:Thanks Bob (not Brian like I said in the episode!) for this profound insight. Both the Tao te Ching and the Gospels are about emptying the bowl, but in very different ways. The TTC is about deconstruction, but the Gospels are about construction. Join me in this episode to hear me...2021-08-0233 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingExclusive: The (misguided) pursuit of happinessAs I'm away for the summer, I'll be sharing some episodes from my Patreon exclusive feed, which are available to all subscribers at the $5/month level or higher. This was the very first ever exclusive, and I hope you enjoy! Here are the original show notes:It's finally here! The first Patreon exclusive episode will continue to dig into the theme of optimism and happiness. What place (if any) does it have in Christian theology and Taoist thought? (Hint: I think the answer is none.)Also, I know I make some very strong statements in...2021-07-1833 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingSummer updateI'm flying home to the US for the next eight weeks! I most likely won't be able to continue putting out regular episodes, but I will share some of the past exclusive episodes I've done for Patreon subscribers. If you aren't a subscriber and you like what you hear, head on over to the Patreon page to get access for only $5/month.Support the show2021-07-0405 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te Ching"Educated" or life-long learner? (chapter 65)In this episode, we look at chapter 65, which is yet another "political" chapter. I'll start with sharing a little of my journey from deciding to go to seminary to wrestling with the idea of what it means to "do theology". Then we'll look at the chapter from two very different angles:1. Avoiding "cleverness" - simplicity and integrity in leadership. In this section we will consider the fact that Lao Tzu seems to be very anti-democratic if we read him at face value.2. The importance of "unlearning" - we'll talk about the idea of education and...2021-06-2037 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingGetting in touch with our "masculine" side (chapter 64)This is, of course, the followup to last week's episode on our "feminine" side. Today, we'll look at the masculine - the yang to match last week's yin. Keep in mind these have almost nothing to do with normative gender roles. Today we'll follow last week's structure by looking at three sets of virtue characteristics aiming towards three goals/ideals. Note that the goals stay the same, but the characteristics are the "opposites" of the ones we talked about last week.1. Proactive action and confrontation -> an invitation to cooperation2. Active commitment -> transformation2021-06-0642 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingGetting in touch with our "feminine" side (chapter 61)Episode 5 was called "Getting in touch with God's feminine side" and it has been a really popular episode. Today, we'll do the first of two episodes on our "feminine" and "masculine" sides, or our yin and yang virtues. Keep in mind these have almost nothing to do with normative gender roles. Lao Tzu shows us quite clearly that all people need a balance of both, yet he stresses the feminine more often since we live in such a "masculine" world. Today we'll look at three sets of characteristics pointing to three ultimate goals. Next week, we'll look at their...2021-05-2339 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingChristian Anarchism (chapter 61)As Monty Python would say, "And now for something completely different!" This week I'll give some insight and explanation into what is, next to Taoism, probably the most important and influential foundational belief system in my life: Christian Anarchism. It sounds a lot more edgy than it is in some ways, though. Christian Anarchism is not about trying to overthrow the government, but a theological and ethical way of viewing the relationship between the Kingdom of God and the kingdoms (and empires) of this world.Although this episode brings us pretty far away from the Tao te...2021-05-0936 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Taoist Fish Fry - and the nature of good, evil, and the “ghosts” of our past that haunt us (chapter 60)In this episode, we look at chapter 60, which has several very different ideas all smashed into one. I'll start with a meditation on the nature of our relationship to the "ghosts" in our lives - the people who try to bring us down. The rest of the episode is divided into a few parts:1. "Ruling a nation is like cooking a small fish" - the importance of non-meddling in leadership2. "Give evil nothing to oppose, and it will disappear all by itself" - is evil an actual force to be contended with, or simply a bending...2021-04-2536 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingThe myth of scarcity and the liturgy of abundance (chapters 58-59)In this episode, we look at chapters 58-59, which (in my estimation) offer two very different narratives for approaching life and leadership, with two very different results. I'll bring in two core concepts from theologian Walter Brueggemann (link below) to flesh out the discussion. I start with a meditation on Ecclesiastes 11 and the nature of internalized fear from focusing on an unknown future. The rest of the episode is divided into a few parts:Breakdown of the parallels between chapters 58-59The myth of scarcity - the belief that there isn't enoughThe liturgy of abundance - the belief...2021-04-1138 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingSkipping a week (we'll be back to normal next Sunday)Support the show2021-04-0501 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingHow Taoist was Jesus? (chapter 56)In this episode, we look at chapter 56, one of the most directive and imperative chapters in the Tao te Ching. The first half of the episode sets the stage for the chapter, then I break down four of the central commands in the chapter and how we see them exemplified in the life of Jesus:1. Blunt your sharpness - the sharp edge of arrogance 2. Untie your knots - the complexities of personal interactions3. Soften your brightness - public displays of intelligence and pride4. Become one with the dust - staying in t...2021-03-2135 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA conversation with Protect Your Noggin podcastBack in December, I had a conversation with two Christian-Taoist "kindred spirits", Jeff and Stacie from the Protect Your Noggin podcast. Since I haven't been able to finish prep for this week's regularly scheduled episode, I figured I would share (part of) that interview with you here, since I had a great time doing it!This will give you a lot more insight into my own background and give a fresh perspective on reading the Tao te Ching as a Christian. Jeff and Stacie are also working through the TTC on their show as well as doing...2021-03-0757 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te Ching"Prolonging life" - four ways we try to maintain false balance (chapter 55)In this episode, we finish chapter 55, talking about the danger of resisting decay and trying to "prolong the life" of things that are in decline.I start the episode by sharing my own discomfort with the word "evangelical" and my great struggle with trying to hold onto it and now my honest desire to reject it entirely due to the current situation in the US, because I believe it is dying.. The rest of the episode looks at four different ways we try to "prolong" the life when things really need to change and even die:...2021-02-2141 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingPlatonic or Taoist? The nature of the eternal and unchanging (chapter 55)In this episode, we start looking at chapter 55. We'll cover it from another angle this week, but today I want to dig into the word "constancy", also translated as the eternal and unchanging.I start the episode by sharing a few poems, most of which I've shared on the show before, to prime the pump for thinking about how we think about God. The rest of the episode is loosely divided into three parts:The benefit of using different philosophical systems to approach theologyPlatonic thought - the good, bad, and ugly of traditional Western theologyTaoist thought...2021-02-0736 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingVirtue in community: The Bonhoeffer Principle (chapter 54)In this episode, we look at the second part of chapter 54, which encourages us to be rooted in Te (virtue).I start the episode by introducing what I call the "Bonhoeffer principle" - that loving your vision/dream of community more than the community itself will ultimately destroy it. The rest of the episode explores the dynamics of virtue in community.1. The ever-expanding sphere of virtue and the principle of attraction (again)2. The Bonhoeffer Principle - four ways to effectively destroy a communitySee more at www.coreyfarr.comSupport...2021-01-2433 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingFour ways to evaluate virtue in your life (chapter 54)In this episode, we look at the first part of chapter 54, which encourages us to be rooted in Te (virtue).I start the episode sharing about how last Sunday I completely failed to live rooted in the Tao as the chapter says. The rest of the episode explores what it looks like to evaluate how we are doing as far as Taoist-Christian virtue goes by looking at four perspectives:Perspective of workPerspective of othersPerspective of timePerspective of ourselves (read more about this in my post "Who am I?": https://www.coreyfarr.com/post/who-am-i-how-we-try-to-solve-our-identity-crises)See...2021-01-1034 minProtect Your NogginProtect Your NogginThe Tao, Suffering & Religious Education with Corey FarrAn interview with Corey Farr, creator of the podcast A Christian Reads the Tao Te Ching. We discuss our favorite and least favorite chapters of the Tao Te Ching. We explore karma, providence, orphanages, and religious education. Farr is a seminary graduate, a Christian Anarchist, a writer, a poet and songwriter. He teaches at a residential school for Syrian refugees in Lebanon, and can be followed at coreyfarr.com. We were privileged to get a chance to talk with this wise student of Lao Tzu from a Christian vantage point. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters...2021-01-051h 35A Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingThat's Christmas, but it's not Christ (chapter 53)This is my attempt at a Christmas special, although I admit I may come across as a Grinch or a Scrooge. Please bear with me until the end of the episode to see that (hopefully) that's not the case.Episode 39 looks at chapter 53, which is primarily a critique of the materialism and hoarding of the rich and ruling class. I start by considering how our own materialistic distortion of the Christmas season draws us away from the very simple and powerful truths that Advent is meant to communicate.The rest of the episode is divided...2020-12-2737 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingThe Eternal Now - repentance and forgiveness (chapter 52, part 2)Episode 38 looks at the second half of chapter 52, which is intensely complex and profound.  Using Paul Tillich's Christian definition of the "eternal now", we're going to a deep dive into what is hopefully a very new perspective (or at least was for me) on repentance and forgiveness. We'll end up a long way away from the words of Lao Tzu - and yet we'll find resonance with his words just the same.I start by asking questions about what it looks like to live the quiet, relaxed Taoist outlook when life is overwhelmingly busy and there's nothing w...2020-12-1327 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te Ching"Shut your mouth" - and discover unity (chapter 52, pt 1)Episode 37 looks at chapter 52, which is intensely complex and profound.I start by musing on the importance of guarding our words and senses in Lao Tzu's style in the midst of a world of constant information overload and communication lacking in nuance.1. The mother and the children - the unity of all things, Lao Tzu's "theology", and absorbing the qualities of God through union2. "Shut your mouth, guard your senses" - making space to experience union, echoes back to the overflowing bowl of chapter 9 and the sensory overload of chapter 12 making space to...2020-11-2932 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingTao before Te - natural revelation and virtue (chapter 51)Episode 36 looks at chapter 51, in which the abstract Tao, the origin and sustainer of all things, points to the more concrete virtue of Te, the selfless and ever-giving behavior of those in touch with the Tao as they emulate it. For Lao Tzu, we can only understand Te/virtue by first observing Tao/the order of all things. For Christians, we should arrive at Christian virtue by first observing God/Christ, rather than using Christian "values" and behaviors to arrive at proper theology.The episode is divided into two main parts:"Natural revelation" - The Tao...2020-11-1546 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingTell me what you want (what you really, really want) (chapter 50)Episode 35 looks at chapter 50, which talks about four kinds of people who relate to desire and their own mortality in very different ways. We'll discuss consumerism and desire with everything from razor-sharp critiques from a Taoist commentator, profound meditations by Christian mystics, a clever parable by Blaise Pascal, and even an analysis of the game dynamics of World of Warcraft.I start the episode by considering the nature of desire and its relation to our own mortality - how it is often subconsciously motivated by the fact that we know we are all going to die. The...2020-11-0140 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingEmpathy and enemy-love (chapter 49)Episode 34 looks at chapter 49, which is all about loving your enemies and staying faithful to the unfaithful. It has such strong resonances with the teachings of Jesus that it is impossible not to see a connection, but we're going to take it a lot deeper today.I start the episode by contemplating just how difficult it is to really learn how to love your enemies. The rest of the content is divided into three sections:Empathy - indiscriminate, unconditional empathy is central to enemy loveSeeing the antagonisms - becoming aware of cultural ideological conflicts and scapegoatingThe...2020-10-1737 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingThe wisdom of unlearning (chapters 47-48)Episode 33 looks at chapters 47 and 48, which give two us two different but intimately connected themes: (1) internal wisdom and (2) deconstruction/unlearning.I open by talking about so many different ways in which I've had to learn to deconstruct and unlearn when it comes to my own life, goals, and even personality. The rest of the content is divided into two main parts:Chapter 47 - The importance of internal wisdom and reflection in a world of overwhelming external inputChapter 48 - The neglected importance of deconstruction, or "unlearning", for learning and growing in wisdomBad habits, first impressions, and personal...2020-10-0338 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingBig announcements! (plus some personal and unfiltered thoughts on contentment)Hey everyone! I've got some good news and some bad news today. Which would you like first?1. The bad news - Due to some big changes in my life, the regular CRTTC show will now be switching to a biweekly production.2. The good news - For the weeks when there is no regular episode, I will be doing special extra episodes for my Patreon supporters. (http://www.patreon.com/crttc) For just $5/month, you'll get not only early access to the regular show, but special episodes diving deep into topics of life following Jesus with...2020-09-2715 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingEmpire: Some things never change (chapter 46)Episode 32 looks at chapter 46, which continues the theme of discontent from the last two weeks, this time placing it in the context of militarism and the nations of the world.I start the episode by telling the story of how I first came to be disillusioned with politics and the hope for any real "change" in terms of the military policies of my country. The rest of the content is divided into two main parts:1. War horses or plow horses? Lao Tzu's metaphor for militarism and greed in a broken world.2. Discontentment and...2020-09-1932 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingLosing my zen from a stupid cell phoneHi everyone! I'm taking a week off from the regular show since I've had an absolutely crazy few weeks and I'm trying to get ready to head back to Beirut next week. In the meantime, I figured I would offer a short story about an experience yesterday that drove me absolutely nuts and made me realize I need to do some serious self-examination.See more at www.coreyfarr.comSupport the show2020-09-1210 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingContentment: finding what really matters (chapters 44-45)Episode 31 looks at chapters 44 and 45, which are all about contentment. Lao Tzu asks some cutting rhetorical questions to make us evaluate our priorities, then he lays out a new vision for true success.I open by giving the headline version of my crazy story over the past year, which I've shared pieces of in the past, and how I've learned to maintain contentment in the midst of it. The rest of the content is divided into two main parts:Chapter 44 - Rhetorical questions: Fame or self, self or wealth, gain or loss - which ones are...2020-09-0530 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingUpside-down leadership (chapters 42-43)Episode 30 looks at chapters 42 and 43, which give us some very practical insight into Lao Tzu's very unconventional theory of leadership. The truly noble leader adopts an attitude of extreme humility and willingness to lead by example more than words. The leader exhibits the characteristics of wu wei in a world full of frantic grasping for more and more power. I bring in a huge amount of Scripture to show just how similar Lao Tzu and Jesus's visions of leadership really are.I open with a critique of rhetoric going on in American politics right now and how deeply...2020-08-2932 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingThe "third thing" - seeking harmony over balance (chapter 42)And we're back! Episode 29 looks at the first few lines of chapter 42, which is a confusing paragraph about the creation of the universe and the yin-yang harmony. However, if we read carefully and creatively, I think we can find some powerful lessons in here.In this episode, I start by considering just one of those practical lessons: the idea of finding balance or harmony between work and rest. The rest of the episode is divided into four parts:The Tao creates one; the one creates two - on unity in the world and the dangers of...2020-08-2240 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingInterview with R. Joseph Owles (Everyone's Tao te Ching)This week I'm interviewing Christian Tao te Ching translator R. Joseph Owles. I love his translation and you probably do too since I use it very frequently on the show. In this interview, we talk about his method of translation, his journey with the Tao te Ching, his very unique Christian denomination (the "Old Catholic Church"), Hegelian and Taoist dialectics, and so much else. RJ was a great conversation partner, and I'm sure you'll enjoy it!His book is called Everyone's Tao te Ching: The Tao te Ching for Those of Us Who Just Want to Find...2020-08-1541 minThe Tao of ChristThe Tao of ChristNondual Christian AwarenessRecently I received two comments from listeners about my episode on Nondual Meditation. One was from a listener from Canada by email. The other was in an online interview with Corey Farr who has a podcast entitled, “A Christian Reads the Tao te Ching,” which is an excellent podcast by the way. I will post a link to it. In addition to talking about my Christian version of the Tao Te Ching, Corey wanted to talk about meditation and referred that episode about nondual Meditation.So I went back and listened to what I said, which is some...2020-08-0813 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingInterview (of me!) with The Reckless PursuitAs promised, things will be a bit different for a few weeks as I am currently home on leave from my work in Lebanon and I don't have the ability to put in the work needed to produce the quality of content we all expect!This week, I'm sharing an interview of myself on the podcast The Reckless Pursuit. Although it's a bit weird to share an interview of yourself, I feel like this conversation gives a lot of background on the show and how the TTC has been an important part of my own personal story...2020-08-081h 00Songs & Stories PodcastSongs & Stories Podcast#522 A Christian Reads the Tao te ChingHost of the podcast, "A Christian Reads the Tao te Ching," Corey Farr thoughtfully considers concept written in the Tao te Ching and how they integrate with his Christian faith. He also works with Syrian orphans in Lebanon, not far from a massive explosion seen on international news this week.   coreyfarr.com I'm Only A Man vinyl pre-order: emerymusic.com/ioam   Links & Sponsors: BadChristian.com thebcclub.com Check out Emery's new album "White Line Fever" at emerymusic.com Stamps.com: stamps.com...2020-08-061h 40Songs & Stories PodcastSongs & Stories Podcast#522 A Christian Reads the Tao te ChingHost of the podcast, "A Christian Reads the Tao te Ching," Corey Farr thoughtfully considers concept written in the Tao te Ching and how they integrate with his Christian faith. He also works with Syrian orphans in Lebanon, not far from a massive explosion seen on international news this week.   coreyfarr.com I'm Only A Man vinyl pre-order: emerymusic.com/ioam   Links & Sponsors: BadChristian.com thebcclub.com Check out Emery's new album "White Line Fever" at emerymusic.com Stamps.com: stamps.com...2020-08-061h 40The Tao of ChristThe Tao of ChristInterview With Corey Farr about The Tao of Christ: A Christian Version of the Tao Te ChingIn this episode podcaster Corey Farr interviews Marshall Davis on his podcast “A Christian Reads the Tao Te Ching.” Corey interviews me about my book The Tao of Christ: A Christian Version of the Tao Te Ching. He also asks questions about nonduality and specifically my podcast episode on Nondual Meditation. So we get into nonduality quite a bit.  So here it is. I hope you enjoy it. You can find the original recording at Corey’s website at CoreyFarr.comhttps://www.coreyfarr.com/View Marshall's books here: https://www.amazon.com/stores...2020-08-0347 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingInterview with translator Marshall Davis (The Tao of Christ)This week I interviewed Christian TTC translator Marshall Davis, author of the The Tao of Christ. I can't recommend Davis's translation strongly enough, and I was so excited to have him on the show!In the interview, we discuss his journey of discovering the TTC, his process and philosophy of translation, and a whole lot about living non-dualistic and inclusive Christianity. No matter where you stand, I'm sure that his views will challenge you to think critically.Marshall's work:Translation: The Tao of ChristBlog Spiritual Reflections: marshalldavis.usYouTube channel...2020-08-0151 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingComing up next: Changing things up for a few weeks (and a request)I'm on leave in the US for six weeks, so for the next month or so, I'll be changing things up. Since I'm not able to put in the work to produce the quality of content we all want, I'll be doing some different episodes in the next few weeks.I have scheduled two interviews with Christian Tao te Ching translators, so I look forward to sharing those. I also recently did an interview on the Reckless Pursuit podcast, and I am waiting to hear if I can share that here. (Of course, you can go check...2020-07-2508 minThe Reckless PursuitThe Reckless Pursuit125 - Christianity and the Tao Te Ching (With Corey Farr)What can Christians learn from reading the Tao Te Ching? And how can this writing assist us in deconstruction? --- It is truly amazing how the more we begin to study other religions, spiritual practices, and philosophies, how much of what they teach begins to overlap with the teachings of Christ. And as we begin to go through or progress further down our spiritual journey, picking up these little nuggets of wisdom help to teach us the truths of God’s creation in a whole new way. Sometimes, when we hear a philosophy taught in a different light it helps us...2020-07-2000 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingThe journey that ends in return - a Taoist poetry slam (chapter 40)Episode 28 changes things up a bit from my normal approach. Today, we'll look at chapter 40, an extremely short chapter that leaves a lot open to the imagination. We'll start with a discussion of chapter 40, the self-giving nature of the divine, and the way that death and resurrection are built into the fabric of the universe. Then, I will follow a thread of meaning that I discovered in the chapter and develop it through a Taoist poetry slam, using four of my own poems and a few others to take us on a journey through our own spirituality.A...2020-07-1835 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingEnvironmentalism - it's not just for "liberals" (chapter 39)Episode 27 looks at chapter 39, where we are faced with a totally new topic: harmony with the environment and the devastating effects of disturbing that harmony. This episode focuses on the Christian Bible much more than any I have done before, in order to demonstrate that love and care for the environment is deeply rooted in the Old Testament, no matter how surprising this may be for some people.In this episode, I start by lamenting the fact that much of recent church history has neglected or even rejected efforts to care for the environment.The...2020-07-1147 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingTales of Te: Stories of virtue and the lack thereof (chapter 38)Episode 26 continues chapter 38 from last week, the first chapter of the book of Te. We will go through the three types of "low virtue" that Lao Tzu offers, and then I will tell some stories from my own life that illustrate each of these three (hence the title).In this episode, I start with considering the idea that cultivating virtue may have parallels with learning a foreign language.The rest of the content is divided into three parts:1. Etiquette/ritual - my "perfect Christian life" as a closet atheist2. Righteousness/justice...2020-07-0334 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingThe Book of Te: The highest virtue (chapters 37-38)Episode 25 looks at chapter 37 and the first part of chapter 38, which begins the second half of the Tao te Ching, called the Book of Te. We will revisit the theme of wu wei that we discussed before and look at it through the lens of effortless virtue, spontaneous goodness, or authentic spirituality.In this episode, I start with describing just how insanely unpredictable my life has been for the last year and how an attitude of wu wei has helped me not just survive, but thrive.The rest of the content is divided into three...2020-06-2733 minStrange CountryStrange CountryEugenics, Part IIOne way to get rid of people was to petition to have them declared feeble-minded and locked away. That's what happened to 17-year-old Carrie Buck in 1924. Strange Country co-hosts Beth and Kelly talk about the Supreme Court case, Buck v. Bell, that led to Buck's sterilization, and the sterilization of a voiceless many under the banner of eugenics. And hey, it's still on the books so. . . ugh. Theme music: Big White Lie by A Cast of Thousands Cite your sources: Amend, Alex. “From Eugenics to Voter ID Laws: Thomas Farr's Connections to the Pio...2020-06-2557 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingNonduality in motion - how living the yin yang changes everything (chapter 36)I think this is one of my favorite episodes so far! Episode 24 looks at the first eight lines of chapter 36, which provide a fascinating insight into what it looks like to not just see the world non-dualistically, but to actually live the nondualism of yin and yang.In this episode, I start by sharing a story about how some of these principles have helped me in dealing with a very difficult boy from the orphanage I work at.The rest of the content is divided into three parts, roughly based on four "lenses" various translators...2020-06-2038 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA very bland episode (chapters 34, 35, and 41)Episode 23 looks at chapters 34-35 and 41, which rehearse some of our old paradoxical themes about the Tao but also bring in two key truths that, in classic non-dual fashion, seem to contradict each other at first. First, those who are touch with the Tao draw all people to themselves; but second, words about the Tao are bland, tasteless, and unappealing.In this episode, I start by contemplatively commenting on some of the long list of paradoxes in chapter 41, bringing them directly into dialogue with Jesus.The rest of the content goes through the primary points:2020-06-1332 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingKnow thyself, grow thyself (chapter 33)Episode 22 looks at chapter 33, which focuses on some fundamental principles of healthy spirituality: knowing yourself, finding contentment, and living life to the fullest. In this episode, I consider the idea that your greatest strength can be your greatest weakness and how important it is to know yourself.The rest of the content follows the four-part outline of the chapter:1. Knowing yourself2. Mastering yourself3. Wealth and contentment4. Finding life in the midst of deathSee more at www.coreyfarr.com Support the show2020-06-0634 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingWar. What is it good for? (chapters 30-31)Episode 21 looks at chapters 30-31, which center around the themes of violence and war. In this episode, I start with a very brief meditation on human justifications for violence before jumping right into the content, which is divided into three parts:Violence begets violence and rebounds back on itselfWeapons are unnaturalWar is murder and should be mourned(For those interested, I referenced René Girard and his Scapegoat Theory, which is well worth looking into for a deep analysis of the dynamics of violence and its purpose in human history and culture.)See more at...2020-05-3037 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingComing full circle (part 2) - The yin yangThis episode finishes the journey started last week, in which I look at chapters 27-29 and 32. By tying together some overlapping themes, I will show the ways in which we lose our connection with the Tao and then come back around to find the road home to our true selves.Because there is so much content, there is no intro or outro for this episode. Just wanted you to know that was intentional. :)Chapter 28 - The yin yang as a practical life philosophy (and not a religious symbol!)The "preferential option for the poor" in Christian...2020-05-2337 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingComing full circle (part 1) - The uncarved block and the problem of namingIn this episode and the next, I look at chapters 27-29 and 32. By tying together some overlapping themes, I will show the ways in which we lose our connection with the Tao and then, next week, finding the road home to our true selves.Because there is so much content, there is no intro or outro for this episode. Just wanted you to know that was intentional. :)The Tao as the "uncarved block" - primal reality or original EdenThe problem of "naming" or carving the blockCreating boundaries and limitations; the creation of the selfSupport...2020-05-1638 minAfter Dinner ConversationsAfter Dinner ConversationsEpisode 16 | I StanOn this episode of After Dinner Conversations, the Brothas discuss Stan culture's effect on an individual's life and how it manifest itself on social media. They also explore the attraction the public has to trolls and the type of media attention they attract. Plug a Plug: This week we have The Havana Boutique (@thehavanaboutique), a Clothing Brand "Where luxury fashion meets lifestyle." Pass The Aux: Corey: Mozzy - "Can't Let You Go", Stephen: FARR - "Reversible", Mike: HVN - "Mistake". (Intro & Outro: Wiz Khalifa - "Y U Mad")2020-05-101h 24A Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingFrom chaos to hope (chapters 25-26)Episode eighteen looks at chapters 25 and 26, which cover a huge range of profound topics, from cosmology to personal union with the Tao.In this episode, I start by sharing a bit about how the simple practice of making my bed every morning has become a spiritual liturgy for me, reminding me every day of the character of a God who brings order from chaos. The rest of the content is divided into four parts:1. Lao Tzu's cosmology versus Ancient Near Eastern views on chaos2. The hierarchy of the universe3. Living in union with...2020-05-0938 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingStanding on tiptoes: Pride, prejudice, and pushing too hard (chapter 24)Episode seventeen looks at chapter 24, in which Lao Tzu goes off on those who overextend themselves and try too hard to shine. Arrogance, pride, and bragging seem like obvious vices, but it's always easier to identify them in others than it is to find them in ourselves.In this episode, I start with a little reflection on one of many ways pride has manifested in my life. The rest of the content is divided into two parts:Standing on tiptoes and running too hard - don't overdo it, don't compare yourself to others, and trust yourself...2020-05-0228 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingHealthy Spirituality 101 (chapter 23)Episode sixteen looks at chapter 23, which takes us back to some foundational principles of healthy spirituality.In this episode, I start with a meditation on the nature of accepting difficult situations that are out of our control - particularly the current situation with global quarantines. The rest of the content is divided into three parts:"Nature talks little" - the wisdom of holding your tongueOneness with the Tao/God/ChristSimplicity, acceptance, and presence - the keys to healthy spiritualitySee more at www.coreyfarr.comSupport the show2020-04-2533 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingDying to self to find life - cruciformity in the Tao te Ching (chapter 22)Episode fifteen looks at chapter 22, which is all about choosing to embrace your brokenness and emptiness in order to find real life. The parallels to the teachings of Jesus and the fundamental Christian principle of death/resurrection means that this episode is the most specifically theological and even "preachy" (hopefully in a good way!) that I've done.In this episode, I start with sharing part of my story, running through a list of major crossroads in my life where I had to choose to die to myself, my desires, and my plans to pursue the voice of...2020-04-1834 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingPronouncing the Tao/Dao - which one is correct?The endless debate: Tao te Ching or Dao de Jing? Here's why both are wrong ... and both are right.Support the show2020-04-1410 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingIs God in the universe or out of it? (chapter 21)Episode fourteen looks at chapter 21, which is an incredibly mysterious one that talks about the cosmic nature of the Tao. In fact, this whole episode is one of the most philosophical and abstract ones I've done to date.In this episode, I start with some thoughts about how easy it is for us to forget that everything in the whole universe is spiritual and soaked in one way or another with the fingerprints of God. The rest of the content is divided into four parts:Chapter 21 part 1 - The Tao as both "elusive and intangible" as...2020-04-1133 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingThe one where Lao Tzu gets all emo (chapter 20)Episode thirteen looks at chapter 20, where Lao Tzu gets intensely personal for the first time. He talks about the great challenge of choosing to break from his culture in so many ways in order to walk more in tune with Tao/the fundamental reality of the universe - or what we might call God's inherent design.In this episode, I start with some thoughts on how divided our world is, particularly during this election season, and how it has become totally unacceptable to admit "I don't know" when it comes to serious issues. The rest of the...2020-04-0436 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingLet's get ethical (chapters 18-19)Episode twelve looks at chapters 18 and 19, which criticize the nature of top-down government and top-down morality. By pointing out the deficiency of ethical systems and moral codes, which fail to get to the heart of the issue, which is our inner disposition and connection with the divine.In this episode, I start with a mini-rant from my 16 year old, radical self, and then consider how these chapters could have provided some much needed moderation and grounding. The rest of the content is divided into three parts:1. Chapter 18 part 1 - The defunct nature of all ethical...2020-03-2834 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingWho's in charge here? Non-existent leaders and a Libertarian manifesto (chapters 17 and 57)Episode eleven looks at chapters 17 and 57, which totally turn our ideas of good "leadership" upside down.In this episode, I tell a story of a time I had to struggle with not getting a leadership position I really wanted and how I learned to deal with it. The rest of the content is divided into four parts:Chapter 17 part 1 - The best kind of leader is the "non-existent" oneChapter 17 part 2 - Trust: you get what you giveChapter 57 - Non-controlling leadership and government: Lao Tzu's Libertarian manifesto See more at www.coreyfarr.com2020-03-2133 minInglorious PasterdsInglorious Pasterds202 - Tao Te Ching w/ Corey FarrKangaroo Eats Toilet Paper, Grandma Is over It, Cursed Toilet Paper,  Woman Befriends Mom's Killer,  Hostess Lattes, Finger-Washing Good, Genius or Terrible Person?, No More Orgies, Triplelupa, Crazy Science,      COREY FARR LINKS www.coreyfarr.com https://twitter.com/realcoreyfarr   PASTERDS LINKS: Pasterds Website: www.ingloriouspasterds.com Pasterds Twitter: www.twitter.com/PasterdsPodcast Michael Baysinger Twitter: www.twitter.com/mjbaysinger Matt Polley Twitter: www.twitter.com/polleynamedmatt Brad Polley Twitter: www.twitter.com/polleynamedbrad Instagram: ww...2020-03-141h 59A Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingI'm my own worst enemy (chapters 13 and 15)Episode ten looks at chapters 13 and 15, which completely dismantle our ideas of "success" and identity. It's a longer episode because there's just so much good stuff in here!In this episode, I start with a mini-rant about the "American Dream" with a reading from chapter 13. The rest of the content is divided into four parts:1. Chapter 13 part 1 - "Success" is just as dangerous as failure2. Chapter 13 part 2 - The problem of the "self" (the False Self)3. Chapter 13 part 3 - Letting go of the False Self and finding the True Self4. Chapter 15...2020-03-1437 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingTo see or not to see (chapters 12 and 14)Episode nine looks at chapters 12 and 14, which talk about the dangers of the over-saturation with content and stimulation and, conversely, the opaque/mysterious nature of the divine.In this episode, I start with a story about some time I spent in a private prayer retreat that, before I ever read the TTC, helped me discover some of the truths in it. The rest of the content is divided into three parts:1. Chapter 12 part 1 - "The five colors and five sounds," the diminishing returns of sensory pleasure2. Chapter 12 part 2 - Presence and community: the answers...2020-03-0734 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingThe Empty Spaces (chapters 11 and 16)Episode eight looks at chapters 11 and 16, which talk about the empty spaces in life as the places where life, love, presence, patience, and peace can spring forth.In this episode, I start with a story about how I found myself embarrassingly caught up in compulsive behavior as I was constantly checking user statistics for my blog and podcast. I then share a passage from chapter 16 of the TTC and how it helped bring me back to a place of stillness. The rest of the content is divided into three parts:1. Chapter 11 - The wheel, the...2020-02-2927 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingMore money, more problems (chapters 9-10)Episode seven looks at chapters 9-10, two chapters that seriously challenge our narratives of success, productivity, and worth.In this episode, I start by sharing a story about a friend of mine who nearly worked herself to death, and how I wish I had known about these chapters and been able to share them with her. The rest of the content is divided into three parts:1. Chapter 9 part 1 - The paradox of how too much becomes nothing at all2. Chapter 9 part 2 - A better way to live3. Chapter 10 - Wu wei and childlike faith2020-02-2225 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingWater you talking about? (chapters 8 and 78)Episode six looks at chapters 6 and 78, both of which focus on the metaphor of water.In this episode, I start by sharing a story of a ministry I joined with the wrong expectations, only to end up frustrated and disappointed, along with how I think this part of the TTC could have been a huge help during that time. The rest of the content is divided into three parts:1. Chapter 8 - The Tao is like water2. Chapter 78 part 1 - The weak overcomes the strong3. Chapter 78 part 2 - The paradox of the good leader...2020-02-1531 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingGetting in touch with God's feminine side (chapters 5-7)Episode five looks at chapters 5-7, which aren't directly related thematically, but I think they are helpful to look at together.In this episode, I start by sharing a story about a time in ministry where I felt extremely unappreciated and even unliked, and how some words from the TTC would have really helped me out. The rest of the content is divided into three parts:1. Chapter 7 - On emptiness and letting go: the Tao is like this, so we should be too 2. Chapter 6 - Using feminine language to describe the Tao and God (a...2020-02-0833 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingThe upside-down Kingdom (chapter 3)Episode four looks at chapter 3, where we have the principles discussed in chapter 2 applied to the life of communities and society as a whole.In this episode, I start by sharing a story about a very embarrassing moment in my past, along with some words from the TTC I wish I had heard back then. The rest of the content is divided into two parts:1. Rethinking what (and who) we value - the danger of focusing too much on "success" and earthly possessions2. The "wise person/Master" as both ideal leader and a model...2020-02-0127 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te Ching3 simple ways you can help CRTTC and become a "founding member"It's always difficult to ask for help, but sometimes you gotta do it!Here are three easy ways to help CRTTC get off the ground:1. Write a short review on your podcast player (preferably Apple podcasts) - the single most important metric for launching a show, and the most difficult one to get people to do2. Share on social media - the most obvious way to help3. Check out our Patreon - become part of the community, and sign up soon to get two FREE "Founding Member" stickers for eternal fame and glory2020-01-2705 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingNon-dualistic thinking and "wu wei" (chapter 2)Episode three discusses two core concepts found in chapter two of the TTC - non-dualistic thinking and wu wei, or “actionless action.”In this episode, I start by sharing about how chapter 2 of the TTC helped me get through a period of major frustration. The rest of the content is divided into three parts:1. An introduction to non-dualistic thinking in the Tao te Ching2. Defining dualistic thinking3. Wu wei - “actionless action”See more at www.coreyfarr.comSupport the show2020-01-2529 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingWhat's in a name? (chapters 1 and 4)Episode two looks at two important chapters that lay a philosophical foundation for understanding what exactly we mean when we talk about the “Tao.”In this episode, I start by sharing a story of how the TTC helped me during a period of spiritual crisis. The rest of the content is divided into three parts:1. The Tao - Without a name, without a beginning2. The Tao - Without desire3. The paradox of the Tao - the “empty source” of all thingsSee more at www.coreyfarr.comSupport the show2020-01-2527 minA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingA Christian Reads the Tao te ChingThe Tao and the Te, the Word and the WayThe Tao te Ching has radically transformed my spiritual life as a Jesus follower. This introductory episode lays a foundation for the entire series and by answering some important questions and defining some crucial terms.In this episode, I start by sharing a personal story of how I first encountered the Tao te Ching. The rest of the content is divided into three parts:1. How could a Christian possibly read the TTC for spiritual formation?2. What is the Tao te Ching, and what does it talk about?3. How the Tao, the Te, and...2020-01-2428 minAmplify Christian Church - Live Out Loud! PodcastAmplify Christian Church - Live Out Loud! PodcastStreams of Hope - April 11, 2019In the episode, Pastor Corey shares how we must acknowledge the beautiful and bountiful blessings of the Earth that God has given us that we farr too often take for granted.2019-04-1103 minTHE METAL HAND OF GOD PODCASTTHE METAL HAND OF GOD PODCASTEp #408: Billy Pon Farr BroWelcome to the Most Dangerous Podcast on the Internet! Today's Hosts are: Wayne, and Adam Our guest: Billy Pon On this episode: We talk to Mr Billy Pon about his upcoming film " Cowboys from Hell", we talk clowns, Ryan Clapps drinking kids drinks, Corey Feldman, rape,and a ton of madness... . Enjoy our madness and share share share !!! FCF Network our new family DisAfterDark here for the best Disney coverage out there. Grim Grinning Hosts is the MHOG of theme park podcasts. PM Star Productions...2017-10-2859 min