Therefore the Sage embraces Unity, and is a model for all under Heaven. He is free from self-display, therefore he shines forth; from self-assertion, therefore he is distinguished; from self-glorification, therefore he has merit; from self-exaltation, therefore he rises superior to all. Inasmuch as he does not strive, there is no one in the world who can strive with him.
Interpretation
The quote emphasizes the virtues of humility and unity in achieving genuine greatness.
In this quote, Laozi outlines the qualities of a true sage, highlighting how embracing unity and practicing selflessness leads to genuine distinction and merit. By avoiding self-display and striving, the sage becomes a model for others and rises above, demonstrating that true strength lies in humility and oneness with the world rather than individualistic ambition.
In practice
During a leadership seminar, one could use this quote to illustrate the importance of humility in effective leadership.
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.
But there are times when the little cloud spreads, until it obscures the sky. And those times I look around at my fellow men and I am reminded of some likeness of the beast-people, and I feel as though the animal is surging up in them. And I know they are neither wholly animal nor holy man, but an unstable combination of both.
A tragedy is a representation of an action that is whole and complete and of a certain magnitude. A whole is what has a beginning and middle and end.
The thing about talking about human rights is that when one bears in mind the sharp end of it, one does not want to worry too much about semantics.
The world is given to me only once, not one existing and one perceived. Subject and object are only one.
What can be said, lacks reality. Only what fails to make its way into words exists and counts.
Everything that is beautiful and noble is the product of reason and calculation.
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