If we had the tiniest bit of sense,
We would always stay on the thoroughfare of Tao,
Avoiding the ill-fated off-ramp.
The high road is broad and smooth,
Yet for some odd reason,
People are prone to veer onto treacherous turnoffs.
Though mansions are immaculately appointed,
The surrounding fields lie fallow,
And the granaries stand empty.
Inside, they wear elegant clothes,
With fine jewels dangling upon them.
They eat and drink excessively,
Enjoying riches too innumerable to apprehend.
We normally refer to this as grand larceny!
Some imagine this to be a noble path.
But it too is a grave deviation from the Tao.
You may order or download The Tao Te Ching here.
List of verses here