Favor and disgrace are like fear. Favor is in a higher place, and disgrace in a lower place. When you win them you are like being in fear, and when you lose them you are also like being in fear. So favor and disgrace are like fear.
Interpretation
Favor and disgrace are transient states that can cause anxiety and fear.
This quote by Laozi compares favor and disgrace to fear, suggesting that both states create a sense of instability and anxiety. When one experiences favor, they may feel elevated but also fear losing that status, while disgrace brings a feeling of dejection and fear of judgment. Thus, neither state should be clung to, as they are both fleeting and tied to external circumstances.
In practice
A speaker at a graduation ceremony might use this quote to remind graduates that accolades are temporary.
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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