Chuang Tzu

“The wise man knows what is unknown to others.”

“To a mind that is still, the whole universe surrenders.”

“The non-action of the wise is not inaction. It is not studied. It is not shaken by anything.”

“The sage is quiet because he is not moved, not because he wills to be quiet.”

“Still water is like glass. You can look in it and see the bristles on your chin. It is a perfect level.”

“A carpenter could use it. If water is so clear, so level, how much more the spirit of man?”

“The heart of the wise man is tranquil. It is the mirror of heaven and earth.”

“It is the glass of all things.”

“Vacancy, stillness, placidity, tastelessness, quietude, silence, and non-action — this is the level of heaven and earth.”

“This is the perfection of Tao and its characteristics.”

“He whose mind is empty knows where the truth lies.”

“Empty thy boat, O monk, and lighten it; it will move easily.”

“He who is content does not lose.”

“He who knows when to stop does not find himself in trouble.”

“He who knows when he has enough is rich.”

“Perseverance is a sign of will-power.”

“He who stays where he is endures.”

“To die but not to perish is to be eternally present.”

“Once upon a time, I, Chuang Chou, dreamt I was a butterfly, fluttering hither and thither, to all intents and purposes a butterfly.”