Not knowing of the eternal leads to unfortunate errors.
Interpretation
Understanding the eternal truths can prevent mistakes in life.
Laozi suggests that a lack of awareness or knowledge about eternal truths and the deeper nature of existence can lead individuals to make poor choices. It implies that wisdom and understanding of the fundamental aspects of life are essential for making sound decisions and avoiding errors in judgment.
In practice
In a lecture on personal development, this quote can be used to emphasize the importance of seeking deeper knowledge.
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.
One's thoughts turn towards Hope.
Whoe'er imagines prudence all his own, Or deems that he hath powers to speak and judge Such as none other hath, when they are known, They are found shallow.
"The flowers have appeared in our land: the time of pruning is come: the voice of the turtle-dove is heard in our land." When the soul, like the solitary turtle-dove, retires and recollects itself in meditation to converse with God, then the flowers, that is, good desires, appear; then comes the time of pruning, that is, the correction of faults that are discovered in mental prayer.
The sacrifice which causes sorrow to the doer of the sacrifice is no sacrifice. Real sacrifice lightens the mind of the doer and gives him a sense of peace and joy. The Buddha gave up the pleasures of life because they had become painful to him.
What you call flaws are really just scars and wounds accumulated over a lifetime.
[In developing your potential] ... I don't develop; I am
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