Nothing on earth is so weak and yielding as water, but for breaking down the firm and strong it has no equal.
Interpretation
Water, although seemingly weak, has the power to erode the strongest of materials over time.
This quote by Laozi illustrates the paradox of water's nature. While it appears weak and flexible, it possesses the incredible ability to wear down even the most solid and unyielding structures. The quote serves as a reminder that strength can be deceptive, and persistence, like water, can lead to profound change despite initial appearances.
In practice
During a motivational speech about perseverance in the face of adversity.
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.
What is more gentle than a wind is summer?
The hole in the ozone layer is a kind of skywriting. At first it seemed to spell out our continuing complacency before a witch's brew of deadly perils. But perhaps it really tells of a newfound talent to work together to protect the global environment.
Earth Day is the first holy day which transcends all national borders, yet preserves all geographical integrities, spans mountains and oceans and time belts, and yet brings people all over the world into one resonating accord, is devoted to the preservation of the harmony in nature and yet draws upon the triumphs of technology, the measurement of time, and instantaneous communication through space.
Ecology and economy are becoming inextricably entwined, and the world is becoming more conscious of this fact.
Live in each season as it passes: breathe the air, drink the drink, taste the fruit.
For two centuries the English countryside has been an icon of national identity and the loved reminder of our island home. Yet the government is bent on littering the hills with wind turbines and the valleys with high speed railways.
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.