Tao Te Ching Chapter 8

 

The best of men is like water;

Water benefits all things

And does not compete with them.

It dwells in (the lowly) places that all disdain -

Wherein it comes near to the Tao.

 

In his dwelling, (the Sage) loves the (lowly) earth;

In his heart, he loves what is profound;

In his relations with others, he loves kindness;

In his words, he loves sincerity;

In government, he loves peace;

In business affairs, he loves ability;

In hi actions, he loves choosing the right time.

It is because he does not contend

That he is without reproach.