A terrace nine stories high begins with a pile of earth.
Interpretation
Great things often start from humble beginnings.
This quote by Laozi illustrates the idea that even the most significant achievements and structures originate from simple and small beginnings. It serves as a reminder that every grand endeavor, whether in life or personal projects, starts with a modest foundation, emphasizing the importance of patience and perseverance in the journey toward success.
In practice
In a motivational speech about personal growth.
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.
The firmness with which the (American) people have withstood the... abuses of the press, the discernment they have manifested between truth and falsehood, show that they may safely be trusted to hear everything true and false and to form a correct judgment between them.
Great works are done when one is not calculating and thinking.
And whatever your labors and aspirations, _x000D_ in the noisy confusion of life, _x000D_ keep peace in your soul. _x000D_ With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world.
One must always try to see the truth of a situation - it makes things universal.
All good things which exist are the fruits of originality.
I call intuition cosmic fishing. You feel a nibble, then you've got to hook the fish.
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