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

Some lose yet gain, others gain and yet lose

He (the sage) wants all things to follow their own nature, but dares not act.

These possessions of a simpleton being the three I choose and cherish: to care, to be fair, to be humble.

All streams flow to the sea because it is lower than they are. Humility gives it its power. If you want to govern the people, you must place yourself below them. If you want to lead the people, you must learn how to follow them. The Master is above the people, and no one feels oppressed. She goes ahead of the people, and no one feels manipulated. The whole world is grateful to her. Because she competes with no one, no one can compete with her.

The great Tao flows everywhere. All things are born from it, yet it doesn't create them. It pours itself into its work, yet it makes no claim. It nourishes infinite worlds, yet it doesn't hold on to them. Since it is merged with all things and hidden in their hearts, it can be called humble. Since all things vanish into it and it alone endures, it can be called great. It isn't aware of its greatness; thus it is truly great.

We desire to understand the world by giving names to the things we see, but these things are only the effects of something subtle.