Respect power,
But maintain receptivity.
By being receptive, one lies underneath the world,
And protects the power of its undifferentiated potential.
To understand the brilliant,
One must also be steeped in the obscure.
By acting as a facilitator for the world,
One gains access to the world’s resources,
Along with its undifferentiated potential.
The sage understands glory and honor,
But clings to humility.
By putting himself beneath the world,
He helps sustain the world,
And safeguards its undifferentiated potential.
Sages know how to turn Tao into a practical means of power,
So great societies are careful to make efficient use of them.
You may order or download The Tao Te Ching here.
List of verses here