There is no greater disaster than discontent.
Goodie-goodies are the thieves of virtue.
The truth is not always beautiful, nor beautiful words the truth.
A leader is best when people barely know he exists, when his work is done, his aim fulfilled, they will say: we did it ourselves.
He who regards many things easy will find many difficulties. Therefore the sage regards things difficult, and consequently never has difficulties.
The sage avoids extremity, excess, and extravagance.