The mark of a moderate man is freedom from his own ideas. Tolerant like the sky, all-pervading like sunlight, firm like a mountain, supple like a tree in the wind, he has no destination in view and makes use of anything life happens to bring his way.

The real art of governing consists, so far as possible, in doing nothing.

All things carry yin and embrace yang. They reach harmony by blending with the vital breath.

He who does not trust enough will not be trusted.

Appetite for food and sex is nature.

When people are unsettled, loyal ministers arise.

The truly wise are content to be last. They are, therefore, first. They are indifferent to themselves. They are, therefore self-confident.