To the sages, the circle-square is not just an abstract concept but a practical tool for pursuing happiness – a guide to a fulfilled and complete life. This is why they expressed happiness as “Sống Tròn Đầy Viên Mãn”, meaning:
- Tròn Đầy – A full circle, where all aspects of life, mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual are developed to their fullest potential.
- Viên Mãn – A complete square fitting the circle, where expression reaches its highest refinement and manifestation.
The circle expands, embracing all aspects of being, while the square ensures that what is expressed is at its highest and most complete form. To live fully is to embody both.
When we flow smoothly, not getting stuck, we feel alive and happy. When we express ourselves freely yet harmoniously, we feel fulfilled. When we stay true to our essence while evolving, we feel grounded and at peace. When we act at the right time, in the right way, we feel effortless joy.
However, without the center, living fully is impossible, for the center is the power and wisdom that births, nurtures, integrates, attracts, and creates all things. It is the anchor that keeps everything in harmony.
In truth, the real form of everything is a formless circle – a vast, infinite whole – with its center as another circle, containing the essence of all. Between these two, the square emerges, not as a rigid limitation but as a free, creative, and sustainable expression of life’s potential.
When the center is strong, the circle expands, and the square flourishes, allowing limitless growth and profound transformation. This is the way of balance, the way of life.
- The circle is the true foundation – not in a rigid sense, but as the infinite, formless source, encompassing all potential.
- The square is the expression, not static but dynamic, creative, and evolving, shaped by the interaction with the circle and the center.
- The key to this dynamic balance is the center – the force that holds, nurtures, and connects both.
Because of the center, the circle and square are not opposites but interdependent, constantly pushing and pulling, expanding and refining.
So, by linking Dao directly to happiness, we take it from the intellectual into the personal and real – Living in Dao becomes The Art of Being Happy, that is the most relevant wisdom for all areas of life!