An ant on the move does more than a dozing ox.
Interpretation
This quote emphasizes the value of action over inaction, regardless of the size or strength of the actor.
Laozi's quote suggests that even the smallest and most seemingly insignificant efforts can lead to greater outcomes than doing nothing, regardless of one's potential or capabilities. It highlights the importance of being proactive and taking initiative, suggesting that consistent effort, even if modest, is more valuable than idleness or mere potential.
In practice
In a motivational speech to encourage students to take initiative in their studies.
If you understand others you are smart._x000D_ If you understand yourself you are illuminated._x000D_ If you overcome others you are powerful._x000D_ If you overcome yourself you have strength._x000D_ If you know how to be satisfied you are rich._x000D_ If you can act with vigor, you have a will._x000D_ If you don't lose your objectives you can be long-lasting._x000D_ If you die without loss, you are eternal.
When nothing is done, nothing is left undone.
A good traveler has no fixed plans, and is not intent on arriving.
Knowing others is wisdom, knowing yourself is enlightenment.
In the world there is nothing more submissive and weak than water. Yet for attacking that which is hard and strong nothing can surpass it.
Rule your mind with serenity rather than with force and manipulation.
The mind of one who practises doesn't run away anywhere, it stays right there. Good, evil, happiness and unhappiness, right and wrong arise, and he knows them all. The meditator simply knows them, they don't enter his mind. That is, he has no clinging. He is simply the experiencer.
What does it avail you, if of many thorns only one be removed.
We destroy ourselves when we stop feeling. If you bury your feelings within you, you become a graveyard.
Our biggest problem as human beings is not knowing that we don't know.
Learn to say 'no' to the good so you can say 'yes' to the best.
Fear of something is at the root of hate for others, and hate within will eventually destroy the hater.
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