"The sage embraces the One and becomes the model of the world. He does not display himself, therefore he shines. He does not assert himself, therefore he is distinguished. He does not boast, therefore …"

"He who is content with what he has, is rich."

"He (the sage) wants all things to follow their own nature, but dares not act."

"When the best student hears the Tao, he practices it diligently. When the average student hears the Tao, he is half-hearted. When the worst student hears the Tao, he laughs out loud. If he did not lau…"

"Governing a large country is like cooking a small fish. You spoil it with too much poking."