She who is centered in the Tao can go where she wishes, without danger. She perceives the universal harmony, even amid great pain, because she has found peace in her heart. Music or the smell of good cooking may make people stop and enjoy. But words that point to the Tao seem monotonous and without flavor. When you look for it, there is nothing to see. When you listen for it, there is nothing to hear. When you use it, it is inexhaustible.

Weapons are ominous tools. They are not the noble ruler's tools. He only uses them when he can't avoid it.

Clay is used to make vases, but it is the emptiness they contain that makes them useful.

In the highest antiquity, the people did not know that there were rulers. In the next age they loved them and praised them. In the next they feared them; in the next they despised them.

Prepare for the difficult while it is still easy. Deal with the big while it is still small. Difficult undertakings have always started with what easy. Great undertakings always started with what is small. Therefore the sage never strives for the great,And thereby the great is achieved.

To be brave without compassion, generous without moderation, and rule without refraining from being first in the world, are certain deaths.

He does not feel pity for himself - thus he can successfully develop.