Does one scent appeal more than another? Do you prefer this flavor, or that feeling? Is your practice sacred and your work profane? Then your mind is separated: from itself, from oneness, from the Tao.

Govern a great nation as you would cook a small fish. Do not overdo it.

Let your workings remain a mystery. Just show people the results.

Confidence is the greatest friend.

He (the sage) wants all things to follow their own nature, but dares not act.

One who lives in accordance with nature does not go against the way of things but moves in harmony with the present moment.

Without law or compulsion, men would dwell in harmony.