The Way to Heaven has no favorites. It is always with the good man.

Thorn bushes grow where armies have camped.

It (Tao) is eternally without desire. So, it can be called small. All things return to it, although it does not make itself their ruler. So, it can be called great.

If people are not afraid of dying, why threaten them with death?

Therefore the Sage embraces Unity, and is a model for all under Heaven. He is free from self-display, therefore he shines forth; from self-assertion, therefore he is distinguished; from self-glorification, therefore he has merit; from self-exaltation, therefore he rises superior to all. Inasmuch as he does not strive, there is no one in the world who can strive with him.

The reason why the universe is eternal is that it does not live for itself; it gives life to others as it transforms.

The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.