15.
The Ancient Masters were profound and subtle. Their wisdom was unfathomable. There is no way to describe it. All we can describe is their
appearances. They were careful as someone who crosses over an iced over stream, alert as a warrior in enemy territory, courteous as a gusty fluid on melting ice. Shapeable as a block of wood. Receptive as a valley. Clear as a glass of water. Do you have the patience to wait until your mud settles and the water clears? Can you remain unmoving until the action arises by itself? The Master doesn't seek fulfillment, not seeking or expecting. She is present and can welcome all things.
16.
Empty your mind of all thoughts. Let your heart be at peace. Watch the turmoil of beings but contemplate their return. Each separate being of
the universe returns to the common source. Returning to the source is serenity. If you don't realize the source you stumble in confusion and sorrow. When you realize where you come from you naturally become tolerant, disinterested and amused. Kind hearted as a grandmother and dignified as a king. Immersed in the wonder of the Tao you can deal with whatever life brings you and when death comes you are ready.
17.
When the Master governs, the people are hardly aware that he exists. Next best is the leader who is loved. Next on who is feared. The worst is the one who is despised. If you don't trust the people you make them untrustworthy. The Master doesn't talk he acts. When his work is done, the people say..."amazing, we did it all by ourselves."
18.
When the Great Tao is forgotten, goodness and piety appear. When the body's intelligence dies, cleverness and knowledge step forth. When there
is not peace in the family, felial piety begins. When the country falls into chaos, patriotism is born.
19. Throw away holiness in wisdom and people will be one hundred times happier. Throw away morality and justice and people will do the right nohing. Throw away industry and profit and there won't be any thieves. If these three aren't enough just stay at the center of the circle and let all things take their course.
20.
Stop thinking and end your problems. What difference between yes or no? What difference between success and failure? Must you value what they
value? How ridiculous! Other people are excited as though they were at a parade. I alone don't care. I alone am expressionless like and infant before it can smile. Other people have what they need. I alone possess nothing. I alone drift about like someone without a home. I am like and idiot, my mind is so empty. Other people are bright, I alone am dark. Other people are sharp, I alone am dull. Other people have a purpose, I alone don't know. I drift like a wave on the ocean. I blow as aimless as the wind. I am different from ordinary people. I drink from the Great Mothers' breasts.
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