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.
Supreme excellence consists in breaking the enemy's resistance without fighting.
During the day extend that attitude to everyone you meet. Practice cherishing the "simplest" person (clerks, attendants, etc) or people you dislike.
For in all adversity of fortune the worst sort of misery is to have been happy.
If you don't like my book, write your own. If you don't think you can write a novel, that ought to tell you something. If you think you can, do. No excuses. If you still don't like my novel, find a book you do like. Life is too short to be miserable. If you do like my novels, I commend your good taste.
Time waste differs from material waste in that there can be no salvage. The easiest of all wastes and the hardest to correct is the waste of time, because wasted time does not litter the floor like wasted material.
To err is human; to forgive people and yourself for poor behavior is to be sensible and realistic.
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