Tao Te Ching Chapter 66

 

How did the great rivers and seas become the Lords of the ravines?

By being good at keeping low.

That was how they became Lords of the Ravines.

Therefore in order to be the chief among the people,

One must speak like their inferiors.

In order to be foremost among the people,

One must walk behind them.

Thus it is that the Sage stays above,

And the people do not feel his weight;

Walks in front,

And the people do not wish him harm.

Then the people of the world are glad to uphold him forever.

Because he does not contend,

No one in the world can contend against him.