When taxes are too high, people go hungry. When the government is too intrusive, people lose their spirit. Act for the people's benefit. Trust them; leave them alone.

Let things flow naturally forward in whatever way they like.

People take death lightly. They expect too much of life. That is why people take death lightly.

Ancient masters of excellence had a subtle essence, and a depth too profound to comprehend.

Do not conquer the world with force, for force only causes resistance. Thorns spring up when an army passes. Years of misery follow a great victory. Do only what needs to be done without using violence.

As for the "proper way:" it is the beginning of disorder.

By compassion one can be brave.