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You are here: Home / Tao Te Ching / 8

8

It is best to be like water
Water benefits all things,
Yet it does not contend, nor struggle to do so.
Water naturally goes places shunned by most people,
Therefore water is very similar to Tao.
Because it dwells even in low places, it is of benefit to all—
Even the unpopular and rejected.

Be like water:
Dwell low, close to the earth,
Penetrate deeply, and reflect serenely upon your environment,
Benefit and nourish all the things around you,
Communicate clearly and faithfully,
When taking charge, be appropriate,
When serving others, be able,
Do not rush nor tarry.
There is a unique time, rhythm and speed for every action.

The sage does not pit himself against Nature.
Therefore he never finds his path obstructed.

___________
You may order or download The Tao Te Ching here.
List of verses here



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