Follow diligently the Way in your own heart, but make no display of it to the world.
LAOZIFollow diligently the Way in your own heart, but make no display of it to the world.
LAOZIWhat people loathe the most is to be orphaned, desolate, unworthy. But this is what princes and kings call themselves.
LAOZIWhen the uncarved wood is split, its parts are put to use. When the sage is put to use, he becomes the head.
LAOZIThe world’s big things only can be done by paying attention to their humble beginnings.
LAOZIIn dwelling, live close to the ground. In thinking, keep to the simple. In conflict, be fair and generous. In governing, don’t try to control. In work, do what you enjoy. In family life, be completely present.
LAOZIWhen the intelligent and animal souls are held together in one embrace, they can be kept from separating.
LAOZIHappiness perches on misery. Misery crouches beneath happiness.
LAOZIEmpty yourself of everything. Let the mind become still. The ten thousand things rise and fall while the Self watches their return. They grow and flourish and then return to the source. Returning to the source is stillness, which is the way of nature.
LAOZIMeet the difficult while it is easy.
LAOZIFail to honor people, they fail to honor you.
LAOZIGiving birth and nourishing, Bearing yet not possessing, Working yet not taking credit, Leading yet not dominating, This is the Primal Virtue.
LAOZINot praising the deserving prevents envy.
LAOZIHe who gains a victory over other men is strong; but he who gains a victory over himself is all powerful.
LAOZILoss is not as bad as wanting more.
LAOZIFrom caring comes courage.
LAOZIReturn animosity with virtue.
LAOZI