When the great Tao is forgotten, goodness and piety appear. When the body's intelligence declines, cleverness and knowledge step forth. When there is no peace in the family, filial piety begins. When the country falls into chaos, patriotism is born.

I am good to people who are good. I am also good to people who are not good. Because Virtue is goodness.

Use justice to rule a country. Use surprise to wage war. Use non-action to govern the world.

Confidence is the greatest friend.

The career of a sage is of two kinds: He is either honored by all in the world, Like a flower waving its head, Or else he disappears into the silent forest.

The sage is one with the world, and lives in harmony with it.

If the sage wants to stand above people, he must speak to them from below. If he wants to lead people, he must follow them from behind.