If the sage wants to stand above people, he must speak to them from below. If he wants to lead people, he must follow them from behind.

To understand the limitation of things, desire them.

A tree that cannot bend will crack in the wind. Thus by nature's own decree, the soft and gentle are triumphant.

Only those who leisurely approach that which the masses are busy about can be busy about that which the masses take leisurely.

Great acts are made up of small deeds.

Treat those who are good with goodness, and also treat those who are not good with goodness. Thus goodness is attained. Be honest to those who are honest, and be also honest to those who are not honest. Thus honesty is attained.

Those who know when it is enough will not perish.