I alone have the mind of a fool, and am all muddled and vague. The people are so smart and bright. While I am just dull and confused.

Those who have compassion when they do battle will be victorious. Those who likewise defend themselves will be safe. Heaven will rescue and protect them with compassion.

In ancient times, those who followed the Way did not try to give people knowledge thereof, but kept them ignorant.

When people see some things as good, other things become bad.

He who regards many things easy will find many difficulties. Therefore the sage regards things difficult, and consequently never has difficulties.

If a country is governed with tolerance, the people are comfortable and honest. If a country is governed with repression, the people are depressed and crafty. When the will to power is in charge, the higher the ideals, the lower the results. Try to make people happy, and you lay the groundwork for misery. Try to make people moral, and you lay the groundwork for vice. Thus the Master is content to serve as an example and not to impose her will. She is pointed, but doesn't pierce. Straightforward, but supple. Radiant, but easy on the eyes.

Kindness in thought leads to wisdom. Kindness in speech leads to eloquence. Kindness in action leads to love.