When much virtue is achieved, nothing is not overcome.
Interpretation
Achieving great virtue enables one to overcome any obstacles in life.
Laozi's quote suggests that when a person reaches a high level of virtue or moral excellence, they become capable of overcoming any challenges or difficulties they may face. This highlights the transformative power of virtue, indicating that it not only guides one's actions but also equips one with the strength and resilience needed to navigate life's adversities.
In practice
This quote can be used in a motivational speech about character development.
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.
Don't be concerned about others not appreciating you. Be concerned about your not appreciating others.
The secret of genius is to carry the spirit of the child into old age, which mean never losing your enthusiasm.
The heart surrenders everything to the moment. The mind judges and holds back.
A penny saved is a penny earned.
There's this tendency to be like, 'Where's the negative stuff? How valid is the criticism?' But honestly, what people think of me is none of my business. If I live on the Internet looking for public approval, I'm going to be miserable.
I hope that even if you remember not a single word of mine, you remember those of Seneca, another of those old Romans I met when I fled down the Classics corridor, in retreat from career ladders, in search of ancient wisdom: As is a tale, so is life: not how long it is, but how good it is, is what matters.
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.