If you want to be given everything, give everything up.

The great Way is easy, yet people prefer the side paths. Be aware when things are out of balance. Stay centered within the Tao. When rich speculators prosper While farmers lose their land; when government officials spend money on weapons instead of cures; when the upper class is extravagant and irresponsible while the poor have nowhere to turn- all this is robbery and chaos. It is not in keeping with the Tao.

Conquering others takes force, conquering yourself is true strength.

Human being's essential nature is perfect and faultless.

Favor and disgrace are like fear. Favor is in a higher place, and disgrace in a lower place. When you win them you are like being in fear, and when you lose them you are also like being in fear. So favor and disgrace are like fear.

He who regards many things easy will find many difficulties. Therefore the sage regards things difficult, and consequently never has difficulties.

Peace and quiet are preferred. Victory should not be praised.