In the world there is nothing more submissive and weak than water. Yet for attacking that which is hard and strong nothing can surpass it.

Even the longest journey must begin where you stand.

Surrender your self-interest. Love others as much as you love yourself. Then you can be entrusted with all things under heaven.

Fame or integrity: which is more important? Money or happiness: which is more valuable? Success or failure: which is more destructive? If you look to others for fulfillment, you will never truly be fulfilled. If your happiness depends on money, you will never be happy with yourself. Be content with what you have; rejoice in the way things are. When you realize there is nothing lacking, the whole world belongs to you.

If the Great Way perishes there will morality and duty. When cleverness and knowledge arise great lies will flourish. When relatives fall out with one another there will be filial duty and love. When states are in confusion there will be faithful servants.

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

He who knows enough is enough will always have enough.