Battles are followed by years of famine.
Interpretation
Conflict often leads to long-lasting consequences that disrupt the normal flow of life.
This quote by Laozi highlights the idea that after periods of conflict or struggle (battles), societies or individuals may face significant hardships (famine) that can last for a long time. It suggests a cyclical nature of life where negative events can lead to long-term consequences, reminding us that actions have repercussions that may not be immediately apparent.
In practice
This quote can be used in a discussion about the impacts of war on society during a peace conference.
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.
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Knowing others is wisdom, knowing yourself is enlightenment.
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Rule your mind with serenity rather than with force and manipulation.
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I believe the lasting revolution comes from deep changes in ourselves which influence our collective life.
The future is not something we enter. The future is something we create.
What I thought was an end turned out to be a middle. What I thought was a brick wall turned out to be a tunnel. What I thought was an injustice turned out to be a color of the sky.
By nature, men love newfangledness.
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