Chapter 7
Heaven endures; the earth stands fast.
Their secret: they ask nothing to last.
They live not for self, so never fade;
Their strength a selfless surrender displayed.
The sage puts himself last; so stands in the lead,
Observes without grasping, content to concede.
By tending to others, his needs disappear.
In serving the world, fulfillment draws near.
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Chapter 8
Water is good, humble, profound.
Nourishing all, chooses lowest of ground.
It rests where none seek it, refusing to boast;
Yielding, it follows the Tao most close.
At home, dwell close to the land you find.
In thought, go deep into heart and mind.
With others, be gentle, in speech remain true.
Be fair in your dealings, let justice shine through.
Act at the right time, without haste or ado.
Live with the Tao in all that you do.
Move with the current,
Don’t fight the flow,
Learn when to act and when to let go.
Learn when to act and when to let go.
Learn when to act and when to let go.