When the government is quite unobtrusive, people are indeed pure. When the government is quite prying, people are indeed conniving.

Whatever one cultivates, is what one becomes.

True words are not pleasing. Pleasing words are not true.

Things flourish, then each returns to its root. Returning to the root is called stillness: Stillness is called return to life, return to life is called the constant; knowing the constant is called enlightenment.

Carrying body and soul and embracing the one, Can you avoid separation?

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

Empty your mind of all thoughts. Let your heart be at peace. Watch the turmoil of beings, but contemplate their return. Each separate being in the universe returns to the common source. Returning to the source is serenity. If you don't realize the source, you stumble in confusion and sorrow. When you realize where you come from, you naturally become tolerant, disinterested, amused, kindhearted as a grandmother, dignified as a king. Immersed in the wonder of the Tao, you can deal with whatever life brings you, and when death comes, you are ready.