The sage is not ill, because he sees illness as illness.
Interpretation
The sage understands the nature of illness, which helps him maintain peace of mind.
In this quote, Laozi suggests that a wise person perceives illness not as a negative affliction but as a natural aspect of life. This understanding allows the sage to remain unaffected by the suffering that typically accompanies illness, highlighting the importance of perspective and acceptance in achieving tranquility.
In practice
In a lecture on emotional resilience, a speaker might quote Laozi to illustrate how understanding our challenges can ease our suffering.
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.
Tis sometimes the height of wisdom to feign stupidity.
The more relaxed the muscles are, the more energy can flow through the body. Using muscular tensions to try to 'do' the punch or attempting to use brute force to knock someone over will only work to opposite effect.
Remember, in the vast infinity of life, all is perfect, whole, and complete... and so are you.
For no one loves the bearer of bad tidings.
I thank fate for having made me born poor. Poverty taught me the true value of the gifts useful to life.
The main thing, of course, always, is the fact that there is only one of you in the world, just one, and if that is not fulfilled then something has been lost. Ambition is not enough; necessity is everything.
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