Therefore the Sage embraces Unity, and is a model for all under Heaven. He is free from self-display, therefore he shines forth; from self-assertion, therefore he is distinguished; from self-glorification, therefore he has merit; from self-exaltation, therefore he rises superior to all. Inasmuch as he does not strive, there is no one in the world who can strive with him.
Interpretation
The quote emphasizes the virtues of humility and unity in achieving genuine greatness.
In this quote, Laozi outlines the qualities of a true sage, highlighting how embracing unity and practicing selflessness leads to genuine distinction and merit. By avoiding self-display and striving, the sage becomes a model for others and rises above, demonstrating that true strength lies in humility and oneness with the world rather than individualistic ambition.
In practice
During a leadership seminar, one could use this quote to illustrate the importance of humility in effective leadership.
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 belligerent state permits itself every such misdeed, every such act of violence, as would disgrace the individual.
The sovereignty of one's self over one's self is called Liberty.
God's Kingdom is "present in its beginnings, but still future in its fullness. This guards us from an under-realized eschatology (expecting no change now) and an over-realized eschatology (expecting all change now). In this stage, we embrace the reality that while we're not yet what we will be, we're also no longer what we used to be.
In the nineteenth century the problem was that God is dead. In the twentieth century the problem is that man is dead.
The sense of an entailed disadvantage - the deformed foot doubtfully hidden by the shoe, makes a restlessly active spiritual yeast, and easily turns a self-centered, unloving nature into an Ishmaelite.
If everybody's not a beauty, then nobody is
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