Tao Te Ching Chapter 80

 

(Let there be) a small country with a small population,

Where the supply of goods are tenfold or hundredfold,

more than they can use.

Let the people value their lives and not migrate far.

Though there be boats and carriages,

None be there to ride them.

Though there be armor and weapons,

No occasion to display them.

Let the people again tie ropes for reckoning,

Let them enjoy their food,

Beautify their clothing,

Be satisfied with their homes,

Delight in their customs.

The neighboring settlements overlook one another

So that they can hear the barking of dogs and crowing

of cocks of their neighbors,

And the people till the end of their days shall never

have been outside their country.