A good traveler has no fixed plans, and is not intent on arriving.

When the emperor is crowned or the three dukes are appointed, rather than sending a gift of jade carried by four horses, remain still and offer the Way.

The good leader carries water for his people.

The softest of stuff in the world, penetrates quickly the hardest, insubstantial, it enters where there is no room.

To consider this desirable would be to delight in the slaughter of men; and he who delights in the slaughter of men cannot get his will in the kingdom.

Requite injury with kindness.

To lead people, walk beside them ... As for the best leaders, the people do not notice their existence. The next best, the people honor and praise. The next, the people fear; and the next, the people hate ... When the best leader's work is done the people say, 'We did it ourselves!