Do your work, then step back. The only path to serenity.
Interpretation
This quote emphasizes the importance of completing one's work and then allowing things to unfold naturally for a sense of peace.
Laozi suggests that by dedicating ourselves to our responsibilities and doing our work diligently, we should then take a step back and refrain from forcing outcomes. This practice allows for a sense of serenity to emerge, as we trust the process and let things develop in their own time, reflecting a deeper understanding of patience and acceptance.
In practice
In a meditation class, to encourage relaxation after a busy day.
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.
Do not, however, mistake me. It is not to my good friend's heresy that I impute his honesty. On the contrary, 'tis his honesty that brought upon him the character of a heretic.
Don't find fault, find a remedy.
Nobody is a real loser-until they start blaming somebody else.
As soon as error is corrected, it is important that the error be forgotten and only the successful attempts be remembered. Errors, mistakes, and humiliations are all necessary steps in the learning process. Once they have served their purpose, they should be forgotten. If we constantly dwell upon the errors, then the error or failure becomes the goal.
An affectionate disposition not only makes the mind more peaceful and calm, but it affects our body in a positive way too.
Nothing puts a greater obstacle in the way of the progress of knowledge than thinking that one knows what one does not yet know.
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