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.
Nothing records the effects of a sad life so graphically as the human body.
In a higher phase of communist society... only then can the narrow horizon of bourgeois right be fully left behind and society inscribe on its banners: from each according to his ability, to each according to his needs.
Today the predatory state, or the predatory group of states, with power of total destruction, is no more to be tolerated than the predatory individual.
Races didn't bother the Americans. They were something a lot better than any race. They were a People. They were the first self-constituted, self-declared, self-created People in the history of the world.
We ask only that the law shall work alike on all men.
A lady could not boast of her chastity who was never tempted.
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