Seek not happiness too greedily and be not fearful of happiness.
Interpretation
Do not pursue happiness obsessively, but do not shy away from it either.
This quote by Laozi emphasizes the importance of maintaining a balanced perspective towards happiness. It encourages individuals to avoid the extremes of overly pursuing happiness to the point of greediness while also reminding them not to fear or reject happiness when it comes into their lives. Essentially, it advocates for a mindful and measured approach to seeking joy.
In practice
During a motivational speech about achieving well-being.
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.
It is not by accident that the happiest people are those who make a conscious effort to live useful lives. Their happiness, of course, is not a shallow exhilaration where life is one continuos intoxicating party. Rather, their happiness is a deep sense of inner peace that comes when they believe their lives have meaning and that they are making a difference for good in the world.
But the rest are even scared to open up and laugh. You know, that's the first thing that got me about this place, that there wasn't anybody laughing. I haven't heard a real laugh since I came through that door, do you know that? Man, when you lose your laugh you lose your footing.
A cheerful face is nearly as good for an invalid as healthy weather.
If we chew every morsel of our food, in that way we become grateful, and when you are grateful, you are happy.
Nothing is more beautiful than a smile that has struggled through tears
Happiness is not a goal; it is a by-product.
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