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.
Once you see that everything is unreal, you can't see why you should bother to prove it.
I shall no longer be instructed by the Yoga Veda or the Aharva Veda, or the ascetics, or any other doctrine whatsoever. I shall learn from myself, be a pupil of myself; I shall get to know myself, the mystery of Siddhartha." He looked around as if he were seeing the world for the first time.
Everybody is very much alike, really. But fortunately, perhaps, they don't realise it. - Miss Marple
In real life, the hardest aspect of the battle between good and evil is determining which is which.
We know it is impossible to go on finding, moving and wasting oil, leveling forests, paving land, dumping poisons, and multiplying our numbers. A new way of life, a new set of thoughts must be found.
There are nuclear-weapons-free zones in several parts of the world already, except that they're not implemented fully, because the U.S. won't allow it.
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