A tree that can fill the span of a man's arms grows from a downy tip; A terrace nine stories high rises from level earth; A journey of a thousand miles starts from beneath one's feet.

Every step is on the path.

Worlds and particles, bodies and beings, time and space: All are transient expressions of the Tao.

What is strong and rigid is snapped and laid low. What is flexible and soft will always prevail.

Learn from the people. Plan with the people. Begin with what they have. Build on what they know.

No thought, no action, no movement, total stillness: only thus can one manifest the true nature and law of things from within and unconsciously, and at last become one with heaven and earth.

Not all spiritual paths lead to the harmonious Oneness. Indeed, most are detours and distractions, nothing more.