Bruce Lee said "be water."
Bruce Lee uttered the iconic phrase "Be water, my friend" in a 1971 episode of the American television series Longstreet. This quote has become one of his most famous and enduring statements, encapsulating his philosophy on adaptability and fluidity.
The full quote, as delivered in Longstreet, is: "Empty your mind, be formless, shapeless, like water. Now you put water into a cup, it becomes the cup. You put water into a bottle, it becomes the bottle. You put it in a teapot, it becomes the teapot. Now water can flow or it can crash. Be water, my friend."
Lee's "be water" philosophy emphasizes the importance of:
- Adaptability: Being able to adjust to changing circumstances, much like water adapts to the shape of its container.
- Flexibility: Avoiding rigidity in thought and action, allowing oneself to flow and move freely.
- Resilience: Possessing the ability to overcome obstacles, as water can both flow gently and crash with great force.
- Mindfulness: The initial directive to "empty your mind" points to the necessity of being present and receptive to the current situation.
The quote resonates so strongly because it offers a practical and easily understood metaphor for navigating life's challenges. It encourages individuals to avoid being trapped in rigid patterns and to embrace change, allowing them to thrive in a constantly evolving world. The "be water" philosophy isn't just about physical martial arts, but about a mindset for life itself.
