The sage wears coarse clothes, concealing jade.
Interpretation
True value often lies beneath a humble exterior.
This quote by Laozi suggests that true wisdom and worth are not always apparent. The sage, representing wisdom and depth, may dress simply and appear modest, yet his inner value, symbolized by jade, is precious and profound. This implies that we should look beyond surface appearances to recognize the deeper qualities in people and situations.
In practice
In a discussion about personal values during a workshop.
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.
A kind man who makes good use of wealth is rightly said to possess a great treasure; but the miser who hoards up his riches will have no profit.
If your morals make you dreary, depend on it, they are wrong.
Thus, though I have heard of successful military operations that were clumsy but swift, cleverness has never been seen associated with long delays.
You largely constructed your depression. It wasn't given to you. Therefore, you can deconstruct it.
Like the lotus which thrives in mud, the potential for realization grows in the rich soil of everyday life
The secret is Christ in me, not me in a different set of circumstances.
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