The leader is best, When people are hardly aware of his existence, Not so good when people praise his government, Less good when people stand in fear, Worst, when people are contemptuous. Fail to honor people, and they will fail to honor you. But of a good leader, who speaks little, When his work is done, his aim fulfilled, The people say, 'We did it ourselves.'

When the Way is lost there is virtue. When virtue is lost there is benevolence. When benevolence is lost there is righteousness. When righteousness is lost there are rituals.

Who can wait quietly until the mud settles? Who can remain still until the moment of action?

Goodness strives not, and therefore it is not rebuked.

Those who take long steps cannot keep the pace.

A terrace nine stories high begins with a pile of earth.

As for the "proper way:" it is the beginning of disorder.