Get to know Tao.
Do not make things changeable.
Do what is right, and everything will be well.
Say, "I am going to make this happen. "
Receive things normally, but not seem too much to receive.
Fill with kindness, but do not take credit.
Speak calmly, but with sincerity.
Loyalty to the country, to the state, and to the Way
Is a great faith in one's own ability.
other readings further drafts from the same generation
deeper strata where the meaning thins
the original
1.
What (Tao's) skilful planter plants
Can never be uptorn;
What his skilful arms enfold,
From him can ne'er be borne.
Sons shall bring in lengthening line,
Sacrifices to his shrine.
2.
Tao when nursed within one's self,
His vigour will make true;
And where the family it rules
What riches will accrue!
The neighbourhood where it prevails
In thriving will abound;
And when 'tis seen throughout the state,
Good fortune will be found.
Employ it the kingdom o'er,
And men thrive all around.
3. In this way the effect will be seen in the person, by the
observation of different cases; in the family; in the neighbourhood;
in the state; and in the kingdom.
4. How do I know that this effect is sure to hold thus all under the
sky? By this (method of observation).