Taoist writings, such as the twenty-five-hundred- year-old Tao Te Ching. In the writings of Taoism's second major writer, Chuang-tse (JUANGdsuh), quiet laughter seems to bubble up like water from a fountain.
"But what does that have to do with vinegar?" asked Pooh.
"I thought I had explained that," I said. "I don't think so," said Pooh.
"Well, then, I'll explain it now." 'That's good," said Pooh.
In the painting, why is Lao-tse smiling? After all, that vinegar that represents life must certainly have an unpleasant taste, as the expressions on the faces of the other two men indicate. But, through working in harmony with life's circumstances, Taoist understanding changes what others may perceive as negative into something positive. From the Taoist point of view, sourness and bitterness come from the interfering and unappreciative mind. Life itself, when understood and utilized for what it is, is sweet. That is the message of The Vin- egar Tasters.
"Sweet? You mean like honey?" asked Pooh.
The How of Pooh? 7
"Well, maybe not that sweet," I said. "That would be overdoing it a bit."
"Are we still supposed to be in China?" Pooh asked cautiously.
"No, we're through explaining and now we're back at the writing table."
"Oh."
"Well, we're just in time for a little some- thing," he added, wandering over to the kitchen cupboard.