The master does his job and then stops. He understands that the universe is forever out of control, and that trying to dominate events goes against the current of the Tao.

True humility involves opposites. The truly humble work in silence. Because they do not speak of their accomplishments, credit for them can never be taken away.

They can see their neighbors. Roosters and dogs can be heard from there. Still, they will age and die without visiting one another.

Act without expectation.

In the Golden Age, Rulers were unknown. In the following age Rulers were loved and praised. Next came the age When rulers were feared. Finally the age When rulers are hated.

On the one hand, loss implies gain; on the other hand, gain implies loss.

The Tao that can be told is not the eternal Tao. The name that can be named is not the eternal Name.