The sage acts without taking credit. He accomplishes without dwelling on it. He does not want to display his worth.

When the highest type of people hear Tao (Truth), they diligently practice it. When the average type of people hear Tao, they half believe in it. When the lowest type of people hear Tao, they laugh at it. If they did not laugh, it would not be Tao.

He who hoards much loses much.

A vessel is formed from a lump of clay with care, however, it is the empty space within the vessel that makes it useful.

Cultivate virtue in the world, and it will be universal.

Water does not force its way.

Whatever one cultivates, is what one becomes.