The best of all rulers is but a shadowy presence to his subjects.

Covetousness is the greatest misfortune. One who does not know what is enough will never have enough.

Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage.

When people are unsettled, loyal ministers arise.

What should be shrunken must first be stretched.

The career of a sage is of two kinds: He is either honored by all in the world, Like a flower waving its head, Or else he disappears into the silent forest.

The sage avoids extremity, excess, and extravagance.