Victory comes from finding opportunities in problems.

Order or disorder depends on organisation and direction; courage or cowardice on circumstances; strength or weakness on tactical dispositions.

Hold out baits to entice the enemy. Feign disorder, and crush him.

In all fighting, the direct method may be used for joining battle, but indirect methods will be needed in order to secure victory.

The successful person has unusual skill at dealing with conflict and ensuring the best outcome for all.

An army may be likened to water, for just as flowing water avoids the heights and hastens to the lowlands, so an army avoids strength and strikes weakness.

In the midst of chaos, there is also opportunity.