"The more taboos and prohibitions there are in the world, the poorer the people will be."

"The sage is sharp but does not cut, pointed but does not pierce, forthright but does not offend, bright but does not dazzle."

"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 …"

"Taking things lightly must lead to big difficulties. The sage regards things as difficult, and thereby avoids difficulty."

"Those who have the courage to dare will perish. Those who have the courage not to dare will live."