The flexible are preserved unbroken. The bent become…
““The flexible are preserved unbroken. The bent become straight. The empty are filled. The exhausted become renewed. The poor are enriched. The rich are confounded. Therefore the sage embraces the one. Because he doesn't display himself, people can see his light. Because he has nothing to prove, people can trust his words. Because he doesn't know who he is, people recognize themselves in him. Because he has no goal in mind, everything he does succeeds. The old saying that the flexible are preserved unbroken is surely right! If you have truely attained wholeness, everything will flock to you.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Flexibility, humility, and self‑effacement lead to influence and success; rigidity and self‑promotion hinder it.
In simple terms: Being flexible and humble brings success.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate humility and adaptability.
Themes
humility
flexibility
leadership
Mood
contemplative
philosophical
Type
wisdom
inspirational
When to use this quote
- conflict resolution
- team leadership
- personal growth
- stress management
Key Concepts
Taoist philosophy
self‑effacement
non‑attachment
Questions to Reflect On
- In what ways can humility be a barrier?
- How to balance self‑effacement with healthy self‑assertion?
A Different Perspective
Over‑emphasis on humility may suppress needed assertiveness.