Tao is beyond words and beyond understanding. Words may be used to speak of it, but they cannot contain it. Tao existed before words and names, before heaven and earth, before the ten thousand things. It is the unlimited father and mother of all limited things. Therefore, to see beyond boundaries to the subtle heart of things, dispense with names, with concepts, with expectations and ambitions and differences. Tao and its many manifestations arise from the same source: subtle wonder within mysterious darkness. This is the beginning of all understanding.
LaoziA leader is best when people barely know he exists, when his work is done, his aim fulfilled, they will say: we did it ourselves.
LaoziA government can be compared to our lungs. Our lungs are best when we don't realize they are helping us breathe. It is when we are constantly aware of our lungs that we know they have come down with an illness.
LaoziA tree that cannot bend will crack in the wind. Thus by nature's own decree, the soft and gentle are triumphant.
Laozi