In harmony with the Tao, the sky is clear and spacious. the earth is solid and full, all creatures flourish together, content with the way they are, endlessly repeating themselves, endlessly renewed. ...................

The Master views the parts with compassion, because he understands the whole.  His constant practice is humility.  He doesn't glitter like a jewel but lets himself be shaped by the Tao, as rugged and common as a stone.

Chapter 39

He who is in harmony with the Tao is like a newborn child...........

The Master's power is like this.  He lets all things come effortlessly, without desire.  He never expects results; thus he is never disappointed.  He is never disappointed; thus his spirit never grows old.

Chapt 55  New English Version by Stephen Mitchell

Isn't amazing that a short tract of words can be and has been translated or commented on in so many different ways. One internet site has over 100 different English translations plus translations in most other languages.

Each  person can find meaning and usefulness in the words.  This is the way  of the wise -- the way of the Tao -- that each person has the freedom to  make the words their own.  Making the words their own -- this becomes  their way.  Still we have a 1000 different levels of meaning and all are  appropriate for the individual at an appropriate time in their life.

Knowing others is intelligence; knowing yourself is true wisdom.  Mastering others is strength; mastering yourself is true power.

If you realize that you have enough, you are truly rich.  If you stay in the center and embrace death with your whole heart, you will endure forever.

Chapter 33 Stephen Mitchell translation Tao Te Ching

Many people have learned and can see others in relation to their daily life.  They can and do learn how to manipulate others and this is called intelligence and by some strength.  Most people do not take the time to look into their own heart to truly know who they are.  Looking within is the beginning of true growth and wisdom. 

Many have positions where they can control the actions and beliefs of others, but then you see they do not walk their own talk.  They are threatened by every movement of the wind.  When you can control your own reactions to each situation you begin to have true power.  So focus on how you react to situations, not the situations themselves.  When you can do this you have true power.

We should know that we have enough to meet our needs and we do not have to chase after what we do not need.  When you know you have enough, you then have an abundance to share -- this makes you truly rich.  From this abundance you can truly freely share with others.

Death is hard to embrace. But being willing to give something up is a kind of death.  That something no longer has control over your life.  This death is not truly death but transition from one level of existence to another.  The center is the One that is in everything and is everywhere. This One or Center is an eternal life and spirit that is beyond our ability to name.  When you can embrace this and know you are a part of this center -- death looses its power.  Your whole heart is renewed and you enter into the realm of eternal existence and life.

My teachings are easy to understand and easy to put into practice.  Yet your intellect will never grasp them, and if you try to practice them you will fail. My teachings are older than the world.  How can you grasp their meaning?  If you want to know me, look inside your heart.

Chapter 70  Stephen Mitchell translation

When they loose their sense of awe, people turn to religion.  When they no longer trust themselves, they begin to depend  upon authority.    Therefore the master steps back so that people will not be confused. He teaches without teaching, so that people will have nothing to learn.

Chapter 72 Stephen Mitchell translation

Always keep looking and keep listening.  The Tao will become who you are.    A Master does not act like a Guru or Messiah.  He does not want to keep people dependent upon him for this will keep them spiritually immature.  When people treat him like a holy man, he nips this in the bud and points them to the inner guide they have within their heart.