There is a big misunderstanding about the idea of naturalness. Most people who come to us believing in some freedom or naturalness, but their understanding is what we call [heretical naturalness] ... a kind of "let-alone policy" or sloppiness... For a plant or stone to be natural is no problem. But for us there is some problem, indeed a big problem. To be natural is something we must work on.
LaoziWhat is well rooted cannot be pulled up. What is firmly grasped will not slip loose. It will be honoured from generation to generation.
LaoziSimply see that you are at the center of the universe, and accept all things and beings as parts of your infinite body. When you perceive that an act done to another is done to yourself, you have understood the great truth.
LaoziBeing satisfied with little, you can gain much. Seeking much you will go astray. The wise heeds this precept. If it could be so with all people!
LaoziWeapons are instruments of fear; they are not a wise man's tools. He uses them only when he has no choice.
LaoziIf a country is governed with tolerance, the people are comfortable and honest. If a country is governed with repression, the people are depressed and crafty. When the will to power is in charge, the higher the ideals, the lower the results. Try to make people happy, and you lay the groundwork for misery. Try to make people moral, and you lay the groundwork for vice. Thus the Master is content to serve as an example and not to impose her will. She is pointed, but doesn't pierce. Straightforward, but supple. Radiant, but easy on the eyes.
Laozi