The value comes from what is there, but the use comes from what is not there.
Interpretation
Value derives from existence, while utility arises from the absence of certain elements.
This quote by Laozi highlights the dual nature of value and use in our understanding of the world. It suggests that things possess intrinsic worth due to their existence, but the true potential and application of those things are often defined by what is lacking or absent, leading us to appreciate the balance between presence and absence in our lives and decisions.
In practice
During a discussion on minimalism, one might use this quote to emphasize the importance of appreciating what is not needed.
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.
Oh for a single hour of that Dundee Who on that day the word of onset gave!
The law must be stable, but it must not stand still.
All history is nothing but a continuous transformation of human nature.
The ultimate goal of farming is not the growing of crops, but the cultivation and perfection of human beings.
You must not lose confidence in God because you lost confidence in your pastor. If our confidence in God had to depend upon our confidence in any human person, we would be on shifting sand.
The view of Jerusalem is the history of the world; it is more, it is the history of earth and of heaven.
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