The Flow of the Stream – “Look upon the undulating path of the stream; it bypasses rocks, accommodates trees, and carves through the valley, reaching its destination without haste or delay. Thus, you too must move, maneuvering around obstacles on the battlefield, unstoppable as the water.”
“The Flow of the Stream” principle uses the metaphor of a stream flowing effortlessly around obstacles, carving its path through the valley, and reaching its destination. It’s a principle of adaptability, fluidity, and resiliency. The key lesson is to emulate the stream’s ability to maneuver around obstacles without stopping or delaying, to keep moving forward, regardless of what stands in the way.
Applying the Principle to Political Power
When applied to the realm of political power, “The Flow of the Stream” principle advises political leaders to embrace adaptability and resilience. Politics, like a battlefield, often presents numerous obstacles that can impede progress. These could be competing interests, policy disagreements, bureaucratic delays, or public criticism. However, politicians can learn from the undulating path of the stream, which bypasses rocks and accommodates trees on its way. They should be flexible in their strategies, willing to accommodate differing views, and resilient enough to carve a path forward despite the challenges.
Historical Example
A compelling example of the “Flow of the Stream” principle in pre-gunpowder warfare can be found in the strategies of the great Mongolian leader, Genghis Khan. Faced with numerous obstacles in his campaigns – geographical barriers, fortified cities, superior numbers – Genghis Khan demonstrated remarkable adaptability.
Rather than engaging in costly and time-consuming sieges, he often bypassed heavily fortified cities, focusing instead on easier targets, much like a stream flows around rocks. He accommodated local customs and people, recruiting from conquered populations and integrating their knowledge and skills into his army. His military strategies constantly evolved, fluid, and adaptable, allowing him to carve a vast empire across diverse terrains and cultures.
Genghis Khan’s ability to maneuver around obstacles and keep advancing, much like the undulating path of a stream, illustrates the effective use of the “Flow of the Stream” principle. His success underscores the importance of resilience, adaptability, and relentless progress in the face of challenges.
[Black Watch | Scrolls of Shunya | Scroll of the Infernal Dawn]
Last Modified: 08/21/2023