heaven is eternal, earth everlasting. they endure this way because they do not live for themselves. in the same way, the wise person puts himself last, and thereby finds himself first, holds himself outside, and thereby remains at the center, abandons himself, and is thereby fulfilled.

The more laws and order are made prominent, the more thieves and robbers there will be.

My own words are not the medicine, but a prescription; not the destination, but a map to help you reach it. When you get there, quiet your mind and close your mouth. Don't analyze the Tao. Strive instead to live it: silently, undividedly, with your whole harmonious being.

Knowing that you do not know is the best. Not knowing that you do not know is an illness.

You should rule a great country As you would fry a small fish- With the least turning.

Freedom from desire leads to inner peace.

Stop trying to control. Let go of fixed plans and concepts, and the world will govern itself.