Let people return to making knots on ropes, instead of writing.
Interpretation
The quote suggests that practical skills and tangible knowledge are more valuable than written words.
In this quote, Laozi emphasizes the importance of hands-on skills and practical knowledge, such as making knots on ropes, over the complexities of written language. He suggests that direct experience and the wisdom gained through tangible actions can be more fulfilling and meaningful than merely relying on written communication, which can sometimes lead to confusion or superficial understanding.
In practice
In a workshop focused on traditional crafts, this quote can inspire participants to value hands-on learning.
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.
Nor do I regret that I have lived, since I have so lived that I think I was not born in vain, and I quit life as if it were an inn, not a home.
The old law of an eye for an eye leaves everyone blind. It destroys communities and makes humanity impossible. It creates bitterness in the survivors and brutality in the destroyers... In winning our freedom, we will so appeal to you heart and conscience that we will win you in the process.
Freedom of speech and freedom of action are meaningless without freedom to think. And there is no freedom of thought without doubt.
To me, ideology is corrupt; it's a parasite on religious structures. To be an ideologue is to have all of the terrible things that are associated with religious certainty and none of the utility. If you're an ideologue, you believe everything that you think. If you're religious, there's a mystery left there.
In the affluent society, no useful distinction can be made between luxuries and necessities.
The desire to rule is the mother of heresies.
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