Chapter 28:Spreading the Dao Far and wide

### Chapter 28: Spreading the Dao Far and Wide

The Temple of Universal Dao had never been busier. With the recent unveiling of the Holy Scroll, interest in Li Wei's teachings was at an all-time high. Followers were flocking from far and wide to hear his sermons, and the temple was buzzing with activity. Amidst this whirlwind, Li Wei received an unexpected notification from the Dao System:

"Reminder: Annual Meditation Retreat Approaching. Prepare to delegate responsibilities."

Li Wei groaned inwardly. His annual meditation retreat was a sacred time for deep reflection and renewal, but it also meant stepping away from the temple's day-to-day operations. He needed a plan, and fast.

As the notification faded, Zook floated over, sensing his concern. "What's up, Li Wei? You look like you just saw a ghost."

Li Wei sighed. "The Dao System just reminded me that my annual meditation retreat is coming up. I need to find a way to ensure the temple continues to run smoothly while I'm away."

Zook's eyes lit up with an idea. "Why not send some of our priests around the world to establish new temples? That way, the teachings of the Dao can spread even further, and you can focus on your meditation without worrying about things here."

Li Wei's face brightened. "That's a brilliant idea, Zook. We have a strong group of priests and followers who are more than capable of taking on this mission."

Without wasting any time, Li Wei called a meeting with his closest advisors and priests. As they gathered in the temple's main hall, he addressed them with a sense of urgency and excitement.

"Friends, the time has come for us to spread the teachings of the Dao beyond these walls. We have an incredible opportunity to establish new temples around the world. I trust each of you to take this mission to heart and bring the wisdom of the Dao to new communities."

Mei, ever the voice of reason, raised a question. "Li Wei, how do we decide where to go? The world is a big place."

Li Wei smiled. "We'll start by focusing on regions where we've seen interest from our followers. Let's send teams to major cities in Europe, North America, and Asia. We can adjust our plans as we go."

He turned to each priest, assigning them a destination and a partner to accompany them. "Remember, you're not just setting up a temple; you're building a community. Share our teachings, listen to people's stories, and adapt to the local culture."

The priests nodded, energized by the magnitude of their task. Over the next few days, they packed their belongings, gathered supplies, and prepared for their journeys. Li Wei spent time with each team, offering guidance and encouragement.

On the eve of their departure, Li Wei stood before the gathered priests and followers, his heart swelling with pride. "May the Dao guide you all on your journeys. Remember the teachings, stay humble, and spread kindness wherever you go."

The next morning, the priests set off for their respective destinations. Mei and another priest, Jin, were headed to New York City; another team was bound for Paris; and yet another for Tokyo. Each carried a copy of the Holy Scroll and a heart full of determination.

As the temple emptied, Li Wei felt a mix of excitement and trepidation. He knew this expansion was necessary, but it also meant letting go of some control. With the priests dispatched, he turned his attention to preparing for his annual meditation retreat.

Before retreating into his meditative solitude, Li Wei held one final meeting with Zook and Madame Liu. "While I'm away, I trust you both to oversee the temple's daily operations. Keep me updated on the progress of our new temples."

Madame Liu smiled reassuringly. "You have our word, Li Wei. Everything will be taken care of."

Li Wei nodded, feeling a weight lift from his shoulders. He retreated to his private meditation chamber, a serene room filled with soft candlelight and the scent of sandalwood. As he settled into his meditation pose, he took a deep breath and closed his eyes, letting the worries of the world slip away.

The annual meditation retreat was a time for deep reflection and spiritual renewal. As Li Wei delved into his meditation, he felt a profound sense of connection with the Dao. Visions of the future filled his mind—of new temples thriving, communities coming together, and the teachings of the Dao spreading like ripples in a pond.

Days turned into weeks as Li Wei immersed himself in his practice. The stillness and tranquility of his meditation allowed him to gain new insights and clarity. When he finally emerged from his retreat, he felt rejuvenated and ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

As he stepped out into the sunlight, Zook floated over with a broad grin. "Welcome back, Li Wei! You look like a new man."

Li Wei chuckled. "I feel like one, too. How's everything been while I was away?"

Zook's eyes twinkled. "The temple's been running smoothly, and we've received updates from our priests. The new temples are off to a great start."

Li Wei felt a surge of pride and gratitude. "That's wonderful news, Zook. It looks like the Dao is truly guiding us."

With a renewed sense of purpose, Li Wei knew that the Temple of Universal Dao was not just growing—it was flourishing. The path of the modern sage was one of constant expansion and evolution, and with the support of his dedicated followers, Li Wei was ready to embrace whatever the future held.