In order to contract, It is necessary first to expand. In order to weaken, It is necessary first to strengthen. In order to destroy, It is first necessary to promote. In order to grasp, It is necessary first to give. This is called subtle light. The weak and the tender overcome the hard and the strong.
LaoziThe Tao gives birth to One. One gives birth to yin and yang. Yin and yang give birth to all things... The complete whole is the complete whole. So also is any part the complete whole... But forget about understanding and harmonizing and making all things one. The universe is already a harmonious oneness; just realize it.
LaoziWhatever is flexible and living will tend to grow; whatever is rigid and blocked will wither and die.
LaoziThe softest things in the world overcome the hardest things in the world. Through this I know the advantage of taking no action.
Laozi