Tao Te Ching – Verse 8
The supreme good is like water,
which nourishes all things without trying to.
It is content with the low places that people disdain.
Thus it is like the Tao.
In dwelling, live close to the ground.
In thinking, keep to the simple.
In conflict, be fair and generous.
In governing, don’t try to control.
In work, do what you enjoy.
In family life, be completely present.
When you are content to be simply yourself
and don’t compare or compete,
everybody will respect you.
(translation by Stephen Mitchell, 1995)
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The highest goodness resembles water
Water greatly benefits myriad things without contention
It stays in places that people dislike
Therefore it is similar to the Tao
Dwelling with the right location
Feeling with great depth
Giving with great kindness
Speaking with great integrity
Governing with great administration
Handling with great capability
Moving with great timing
Because it does not contend
It is therefore beyond reproach
(translation by Derek Lin, 2006)
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We are made of Nothingness.
We are made of Zero.
If that is too complex, then we say we are made of Water.
Water: non-discriminatory life.
Avoid decay, by simplicity.
(translation by Jeremy M. Miller, 2013)
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from I Ching Online
