The wise man looks back into the past, and does not grieve over what is far off, nor rejoice over what is near; for he knows that time is without end.
Interpretation
The wise person understands the transient nature of time and does not dwell on the past or overly celebrate the present.
This quote by Laozi emphasizes the importance of perspective in relation to time. A wise individual recognizes that both past regrets and present joys are fleeting, and instead chooses to focus on the eternal nature of time. This perspective encourages us to live mindfully, appreciating the moment without being overly attached to its outcomes, as time continues endlessly beyond our immediate experiences.
In practice
During a motivational speech about overcoming challenges, this quote can remind the audience to focus on the journey rather than past mistakes.
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.
There are but very few men clever enough to know all the mischief they do.
I don't think anybody can be told how to act. I think you can give advice. But you have to find your own way through it.
The important thing is not to stop questioning. Curiosity has its own reason for existing. One cannot help but be in awe when he contemplates the mysteries of eternity, of life, of the marvelous structure of reality. It is enough if one tries merely to comprehend a little of this mystery every day. Never lose a holy curiosity.
Doubt is one of the names of intelligence.
See the hand that nursed the serpent. The fine hasped pipes of her fingerbones. The skin bewenned and speckled. The veins are milkblue and bulby. A thin gold ring set with diamonds. That raised the once child's heart of her to agonies of passion before I was. Here is the anguish of mortality. Hopes wrecked, love sundered. See the mother sorrowing. How everything that I was warned of's come to pass.
Better be wise by the misfortunes of others than by your own.
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