Of the second-rate leaders people speak respectfully saying, "He has done this, he has done that." Of the first-rate leaders, they do not say this. They say, "We have done it all ourselves."

One who lives in accordance with nature does not go against the way of things but moves in harmony with the present moment.

Weapons are instruments of fear; they are not a wise man's tools. He uses them only when he has no choice.

Do nothing, and leave nothing undone. ["Doing nothing" is what happens when the doer disappears, it isn't something that one does or chooses not to do.]

When wisdom and knowledge appear, great pretense arises.

Cultivate virtue in the world, and it will be universal.

To lead people, walk behind them.