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In the world there is nothing more submissive and weak than water. Yet for attacking that which is hard and strong nothing can surpass it.

Laozi

He that humbles himself shall be preserved entire. He that bends shall be made straight. He that is empty shall be filled. He that is worn out shall be renewed. He who has little shall succeed. He who has much shall go astray.
LAOZI

Empty Entire Humility Little Succeed
When the highest type of people hear Tao (Truth), they diligently practice it. When the average type of people hear Tao, they half believe in it. When the lowest type of people hear Tao, they laugh at it. If they did not laugh, it would not be Tao.
LAOZI

Average Believe Diligently Practice
The sage is not ill, because he sees illness as illness.
LAOZI

Health Illness Knowledge Sage Taoism
Loss is not as bad as wanting more.
LAOZI

Loss More Require Taoism
When the uncarved wood is split, its parts are put to use. When the sage is put to use, he becomes the head.
LAOZI

Perceive Sage Taoism Use
The ego is entranced by … names and ideas… However names and concepts only block your perception of this Great Oneness. Therefore it is wise to ignore them. Those who live inside their egos are continually bewildered.
LAOZI

Block Concept Name Perception Wise
Take [preventive] action before things happen. Establish order before disorder has begun.
LAOZI

Action Begun Establish Happen Order
Some lose yet gain, others gain and yet lose
LAOZI

Gain Inspirational Lose People Some
If a person seems wicked, do not cast him away. Awaken him with your words, elevate him with your deeds, repay his injury with your kindness. Do not cast him away; cast away his wickedness.
LAOZI

Deed Elevate Kindness Spiritual Wick
Excellent warriors are not violent.
LAOZI

Excellent Taoism Violent Warrior
Man’s enemies are not demons, but human beings like himself.
LAOZI

Enemy Human Inspirational Men
I have the mind of a fool, understanding nothing.
LAOZI

Knowledge Mind Understanding
Wear down to be renewed.
LAOZI

Country Life People Renew Taoism
An integral being knows without going, sees without looking, and accomplishes without doing.
LAOZI

Accomplish Action Inspirational Integral
Rule your mind with serenity rather than with force and manipulation.
LAOZI

Manipulation Mind Serenity Taoism
He who gains a victory over other men is strong; but he who gains a victory over himself is all powerful.
LAOZI

Powerful Strength Strong Victory

In the world there is nothing more submissive and weak than water. Yet for attacking that which is hard and strong nothing can surpass it.

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In the world there is nothing more submissive and weak than water. Yet for attacking that which is hard and strong nothing can surpass it.

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