The Three Principle Texts of Daoism translated by ... - Bad Request

achieves merit but does not take it to himself; he doesnot wish to display his worth.I have three precious things, which I hold fast and prize.The first is gentleness; the second is frugality; the thirdis humility, which keeps me from putting myself beforeothers. Be gentle, and you can be bold; be frugal, andyou can be liberal; avoid putting yourself before others,and you can become a leader among men.But in the present day men cast off gentleness, and areall for being bold; they spurn frugality, and retain onlyextravagance; they discard humility, and aim only atbeing first. Therefore they shall surely perish.Gentleness brings victory to him who attacks, and safetyto him who defends. Those whom Heaven would save, itfences round with gentleness.The best soldiers are not warlike; the best fighters donot lose their temper. The greatest conquerors are thosewho overcome their enemies without strife. The greatestdirectors of men are those who yield place to others.This is called the Virtue of not striving, the capacity fordirecting mankind; this is being the compeer of Heaven.It was the highest goal of the ancients.