The things that have acquired unity are these: Heaven by unity has become clear; Earth by unity has become steady; The Spirit by unity has become spiritual; The Valley by unity has become full; All things by unity have come into existence.
Interpretation
Unity is the essential principle that brings clarity and stability to all aspects of existence.
This quote by Laozi highlights the fundamental role of unity in shaping the world around us. It suggests that the coherence and interconnectedness of everything—from heaven and earth to spirit and nature—are what allow them to exist and flourish. Unity is portrayed as a transformative force that clarifies, stabilizes, and enhances life in all its forms.
In practice
In a team meeting, to emphasize the importance of collaboration, one could quote Laozi's view on unity.
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 question I'm always asking myself is: are we masters or victims? Do we make history, or does history make us? Do we shape the world, or are we just shaped by it? The question of do we have agency in our lives or whether we are just passive victims of events is, I think, a great question, and one that I have always tried to ask.
If you hear a "prominent" economist using the word 'equilibrium,' or 'normal distribution,' do not argue with him; just ignore him, or try to put a rat down his shirt.
The Man who works for others, without any selfish motive, really does good to himself.
In our society it is murder, psychologically, to deprive a man of a job or an income. You are in substance saying to that man that he has no right to exist. You are in a real way depriving him of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, denying in his case the very creed of his society.
In an ugly and unhappy world the richest man can purchase nothing but ugliness and unhappiness.
Each of us is a unique strand in the intricate web of life and here to make a contribution.
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