Tao Te Ching

by Lao Tzu

The wise are not conspicuous in their actions or given to much talking. When troubles arise, they are not irritated. They produce, but do not hoard; They act, but expect no praise;

They are not focused on outcomes or achievements; therefore they always succeed.

Everything that lives has a physical body, but the value of a life is measured by the soul.

The wise attend to the inner truth of things and are not fooled by outward appearances. They ignore matter and seek the spirit.

To clarify muddy waters, you must hold them still and let things settle. To glimpse the secret of the Tao, you must keep still and quiet your mind.

But when great rulers lead, the people are hardly aware of their existence.

Here are the four fundamentals of true spirituality: recognize simplicity, cherish purity, reduce your possessions, diminish your desires.