A great nation is like a great man:When he makes a mistake, he realizes it.Having realized it, he admits it.Having admitted it, he corrects it.He considers those who point out his faultsas his most benevolent teachers.He thinks of his enemyas the shadow that he himself casts.

When people are unsettled, loyal ministers arise.

Governing a large state is like boiling a small fish.

Fame or integrity: which is more important? Money or happiness: which is more valuable? Success or failure: which is more destructive? If you look to others for fulfillment, you will never truly be fulfilled. If your happiness depends on money, you will never be happy with yourself. Be content with what you have; rejoice in the way things are. When you realize there is nothing lacking, the whole world belongs to you.

If I have just an ounce of sense, I follow the great Way, and fear only to stray from it.

Truly, only those who see illness as illness can avoid illness.

Racing and hunting excite man's heart to madness.