The Tao of Kung Fu #15 - "The soul only records growth."

This short video is from the 1970's TV series "Kung Fu". "Kung Fu" tells the adventures of a fictional Shaolin priest named Kwai Chang Caine, played by David Carradine. Caine wanders the American "Wild West" in the 1880's, with nothing more than compassion, moderation, humility and a little Shaolin magic.

The teachings of the Shaolin were meticulously researched for the "Kung Fu" series, making it one of the most authentic interpretations of the Taoist philosophy in popular culture. I recently decided to post selected scenes from "Kung Fu", to illustrate this extremely insightful ancient Chinese philosophy.

This clip is from the last episode of the first season premiering in 1973. Entitled "Ancient Warrior", the episode tells the story of an elderly Native American who is the last of his tribe. Knowing that he is soon to die, Ancient Warrior (Chief Dan George) asks Caine to assist him locate his ancestral burial ground. Unfortunately, his sacred ground is now in a town where Ancient Warrior's tribe fought many fierce battles.

Although Ancient Warrior has forgiven the town's people for the genocide of his tribe; many of the town's people are unable to forgive him and forbid his burial. Nevertheless, after much protracted debate, Ancient Warrior is granted permission. Yet he declines. He tells Caine he does not want to be buried in a place where there is so much hatred.

Caine is deeply moved by the ailing chief's strength to forgive his enemies. Although by a different name, it is evident Ancient Warrior is a follower of Tao, as is anyone who follows the virtuous ways of Nature.

While cremating Ancient Warrior, Caine recalls the words of Master Kan (Philip Ahn). Master Kan explains how a physical love in life elevates to spiritual unification in death. Anyone who has lost a loved one knows that their thoughts and dreams are regularly occupied by their deceased beloved.

Caine then asks Master Kan if this level of connection is dependant on duration. To this Master Kan replies,"Our soul does not keep time; it merely records growth." Most of us have encountered someone who has profoundly influenced us. Our time in their presence may have been brief and yet their inspiration is eternal.

To learn more about the Tao and philosophical Taoism, please visit my YouTube channel: http://www.youtube.com/TaoFAQ

Category:

Education

Tags:

• Tao
• Taoist
• Taoism
• Dao
• Daoism
• Daoist
• Caine
• DavidCarradine
• KungFu
• Shaolin
• Philosophy
• MasterKan
• Grasshopper
• 1973
• TVseries

[mercian7]

I had a teacher, i was very lucky, he was my Father.

[yinyangnature]

@mercian7 Indeed. The wisdom of our late fathers live on within us.

[MadMoneyGirl]

I used to watch this many years ago and never finished an episode without learning something that had true meaning for me.

Thank you yinyangnature for uploading this clip....truly a beautiful message.

[yinyangnature]

@MadMoneyGirl Thank you. You're experiences of Kung Fu are very similar to mine.

[Chatham50]

What a wonderful reflection on death and its meaning for those who survive!

[maximushuts]

No TV show before or since matches the great Kung Fu.

[metalhanded]

i'll be 31 soon and not once have i ever seen this show on tv. i've always wanted to see it. but it might teach people something and they cant have that...brought beavis&butthead back though. i'm tired of this anti-intellect that seems to be everywhere now. everywhere in america at least.

[jamesarongray]

heavy

[DavelovesRealMusic]

The Soul only records growth...knowing that at all times..is sometimes difficult.

[Jonnyeth]

@yinyangnature The same is for me. The children pick up the wisdom imparted to them by their parents, and build upon it. My Dad has traversed as far as he can. Now it's my turn 'till I one day have children and pass what wisdom I have to them. The continuation of the eternal way.

[johnnyray1717]

I love this Tao of Kung Fu. As always, Words to Take to Heart.

[geonerd]

One of the most touching scenes in the entire series.

[CrankDATdance56]

Best show ever

[PhantomGiz]

"Knowing what you truly loved is never lost." I love the spirtually side of Kung Fu. :)

[mercian7]

@mercian7

Thank you I miss him so much.

Thank you so much for posting these clips that teach so much.