When one gives undivided attention to the (vital) breath, and brings it to the utmost degree of pliancy, he can become as a (tender) babe. Lao Tzu
When the people of the world all know beauty as beauty, there arises the recognition of ugliness. When they all know the good as good, there arises the recognition of evil. Lao Tzu
When men lost their understanding of the Tao, intelligence came along, bringing hypocrisy with it. Lao Tzu
When one knows that he is his mother's child, and proceeds to guard (the qualities of) the mother that belong to him, to the end of his life he will be free from all peril. Lao Tzu
When the Great Tao (Way or Method) ceased to be observed, benevolence and righteousness came into vogue. Lao Tzu
When superior people hear guidance, they carry it out diligently and ably. When mediocre people hear guidance, it seems vague and uncertain. When lesser people hear guidance, they laugh. Lao Tzu
When the work is done, and one's name is becoming distinguished, to withdraw into obscurity is the way of Heaven. Lao Tzu
When people see some things as beautiful, other things become ugly. When people see some things as good, other things become bad. Being and non-being create each other. Lao Tzu