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Less and less do you need to force things, until finally you arrive at non-action. When nothing is done, nothing is left undone.
The Master has mastered Nature; not in the sense of conquering it, but of becoming it.
In thinking, keep to the simple.
In governing, don’t try to control.
In work, do what you enjoy.
In family life, be complete...
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When you are content to be simply yourself and don’t compare or compete, everybody will respect you.
Fill your bowl to the brim and it will spill. Keep sharpening your knife and it will blunt. Chase after money and security and your heart will never unclench. Care about people’s approval and you will be their prisoner. Do your work, then step back. The only path to serenity.
The Master doesn’t seek fulfillment. Not seeking, not expecting, she is present, and can welcome all things.
Throw away holiness and wisdom, and people will be a hundred times happier. Throw away morality and justice, and people will do the right thing. Throw away industry and profit, and there won’t be any thieves. If these three aren’t enough, just stay at the center of the circle and let all things take their course.
If you want to become whole, let yourself be partial. If you want to become straight, let yourself be crooked. If you want to become full, let yourself be empty. If you want to be reborn, let yourself die. If you want to be given everything, give everything up.
Express yourself completely, then keep quiet. Be like the forces of nature: when it blows, there is only wind; when it rains, there is only rain; when the clouds pass, the sun shines through.
