LAO TZU

Nothing is softer or more flexible than water, yet nothing can resist it.

A good traveler has no fixed plans, and is not intent on arriving.

To know yet to think that one does not know is best; Not to know yet to think that one knows will lead to difficulty.

Govern a great nation as you would cook a small fish. Do not overdo it.

One who is too insistent on his own views, finds few to agree with him.

When you are content to be simply yourself and don't compare or compete, everybody will respect you.

I do not concern myself with gods and spirits either good or evil nor do I serve any.

He who knows others is wise. He who knows himself is enlightened.

When a nation is filled with strife, then do patriots flourish.

The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.

Be the chief but never the lord.

Of all that is good, sublimity is supreme. Succeeding is the coming together of all that is beautiful. Furtherance is the agreement of all that is just. Perseverance is the foundation of all actions.

Health is the greatest possession. Contentment is the greatest treasure. Confidence is the greatest friend. Non-being is the greatest joy.

Great indeed is the sublimity of the Creative, to which all beings owe their beginning and which permeates all heaven.

One can not reflect in streaming water. Only those who know internal peace can give it to others.

Silence is a source of great strength.

Man takes his law from the Earth; the Earth takes its law from Heaven; Heaven takes its law from the Tao. The law of the Tao is its being what it is.

He who talks more is sooner exhausted.

The words of truth are always paradoxical.

He who knows himself is enlightened.

Kindness in words creates confidence. Kindness in thinking creates profoundness. Kindness in giving creates love.

There was something undifferentiated and yet complete, which existed before Heaven and Earth. Soundless and formless, it depends on nothing and does not change. It operates everywhere and is free from danger. It may be considered the mother of the universe. I do not know its name; I call it Tao.

He who controls others may be powerful, but he who has mastered himself is mightier still.

He who knows, does not speak. He who speaks, does not know.

Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage.