When you realize where you come from, you naturally become tolerant, amused, kindhearted as a grandmother, and dignified as a king. Immersed in wonder, you can deal with whatever life brings you, and when death comes, you are ready.

The reason for great distress is the body. Without it, what distress could there be?

If Heaven and Earth are unable to persist, how could man?

In the Golden Age, Rulers were unknown. In the following age Rulers were loved and praised. Next came the age When rulers were feared. Finally the age When rulers are hated.

Those who praise victory relish manslaughter. Those who relish manslaughter cannot reach their goals in the world.

The sage acts without taking credit. He accomplishes without dwelling on it. He does not want to display his worth.

The Way begets one; one begets two; two begets three; three begets the myriad creatures.