Verse 63 The secret to getting things done

Act without acting on.  Work without working at.

Enter bountifulness when it is still insufficiency. Answer with kindness when faced with hostility.

Begin a difficult task in its easy stage, because large problems grow from small ones.

Begin a large task in its formative state, because complex issues originate from simple ones.

But be aware of those who promise quick and easy solutions! Accept problems as challenges.

In this way, the sage accomplishes great tasks without ever having to struggle with them. 

Verse 68 The Ethics of War

The best soldier fights

Without vengeance,

Without anger

And without hate.


He puts himself humbly

Below his comrades,

Thereby eliciting

The highest loyalty from them.


This is the power

Of non-belligerence

And cooperation.

It is the ancient path to the Great Integrity.