By moderation one can be generous.

One who believes in himself has no need to convince others.

Though (the Tao) is uncreated itself, it creates all things. Because it has no substance, it can enter into where there is no space. Exercising by returning to itself, winning victories by remaining gentle and yielding, it is softer than anything, and therefore overcomes everything hard.

All streams flow to the sea because it is lower than they are. Humility gives it its power.

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.

When the government is quite unobtrusive, people are indeed pure. When the government is quite prying, people are indeed conniving.

Some have lavish garments, carry sharp swords, and feast on food and drink. They possess more than they can spend. This is called the vanity of robbers. It is certainly not the Way.