Even in decline, a virtuous man increases the beauty of his behavior. A burning stick, though turned to the ground, has its flame drawn upwards.

With gifts, you may gather your enemies about you. When giving nothing, even your own family will leave.

Great affection is often the cause of violent animosity. The quarrels of men often arise from too great a familiarity.

By depending on the great, The small may rise high. See: the little plant ascending the tall tree Has climbed to the top.

If a wise man behaves prudently, how can he be overcome by his enemies? Even a single man, by right action, can overcome a host of foes.

If one is intelligent and applies himself well, what can he not accomplish? Even small bands of people, I have heard, have defeated whole armies.

It may be doubtful, at first, whether a person is an enemy or friend. Meat, if not properly digested, becomes poison; But poison, if used rightly, may turn medicinal.