The world's beginning is its mother. To have found the mother is also to know the children. Although you know the children, cling to the mother. Until your last day you will not be harmed.

In dwelling, be close to the land. In meditation, go deep in the heart. In dealing with others, be gentle and kind. In speech, be true. In ruling, be just. In daily life, be competent. In action, be aware of the time and the season.

Conquering others takes force, conquering yourself is true strength.

Only those who leisurely approach that which the masses are busy about can be busy about that which the masses take leisurely.

When bitter enemies make peace, surely some bitterness remains.

If you can let go of (the Tao) with your mind and surround it with your heart, it will live inside you forever.

He who has achieved this state Is unconcerned with friends and enemies, With good and harm, with honor and disgrace. This therefore is the highest state of man.