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

When superior people hear of the Way, they carry it out with diligence. When middling people hear of the Way, it sometimes seems to be there, sometimes not. When lesser people hear of the Way, they ridicule it greatly. If they didn't laugh at it, it wouldn't be the Way.

There is nothing softer and weaker than water, and yet there is nothing better for attacking hard and strong things.

Stretch the bow to the very full, and you will wish you had stopped in time.

To be brave without compassion, generous without moderation, and rule without refraining from being first in the world, are certain deaths.

A scholar who cherishes the love of comfort is not fit to be deemed a scholar.

All things carry yin and embrace yang. They reach harmony by blending with the vital breath.