Happily Ever Now

When it comes to time, we [Americians] like action rather than contemplation. We surround ourselves with tools and time-saving devices to make things happen on cue. We Americans are a hands-on culture.
In contrast, the Tao assumes a hands-off approach. The ideal way to direct events is to employ methods that do not create resistance or elicit counter reactions. The technique to achieve a perfect flow of events is the art of wu-wei—of not working against the grain of things, of waiting for the right moment without forcing anything unduly. Instead of pushing to make things happen, in the Taoist way you wait for the right moment without forcing anything unduly. Instead of pushing to make things happen, in the Taoist way you wait for the right moment for events to unfold. The right moment is easily recognized. It’s when actions seem to fall into place almost of their own accord. When that moment occurs, you are swept effortlessly along with time.
The Taoist way takes patience, something that most Americans are woefully short of.”