Tao is the source and sanctuary of all things.
It is both the storehouse of the sage,
And the safeguard of the sinner.
Beautiful speech wins adoration,
And honorable acts win respect,
But the disgraced are not without potential—
Why should we cast them aside?
When great rulers are coronated,
They are honored with horses and jewelry.
Yet these are mere trinkets,
When compared with the treasures of the Tao.
Why has Tao been regarded as the greatest gift of all?
Because to those who abide in Tao,
The greatest grace is revealed,
And to those who confide in Tao,
The basest disgrace is repealed.
You may order or download The Tao Te Ching here.
List of verses here