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He who is in harmony with the Tao is like a newborn child…

“He who is in harmony with the Tao is like a newborn child. Its bones are soft, its muscles are weak, but its grip is powerful. It doesn't know about the union of male and female, yet its penis can stand erect, so intense is its vital power. It can scream its head off all day, yet it never becomes…” quote by Lao Tzu
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““He who is in harmony with the Tao is like a newborn child. Its bones are soft, its muscles are weak, but its grip is powerful. It doesn't know about the union of male and female, yet its penis can stand erect, so intense is its vital power. It can scream its head off all day, yet it never becomes hoarse, so complete is its harmony. The Master's power is like this. He lets all things come and go effortlessly, without desire. He never expects results; thus he is never disappointed. He is never disappointed; thus his spirit never grows old.””

Lao Tzu

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Harmony with the Tao yields effortless power, humility, and timeless resilience, transcending desire and expectation.

In simple terms: Living in harmony gives quiet strength and lasting peace.

Key Takeaway

Embrace ease, release desire.

Themes

harmony humility resilience

Mood

calm reflective steady

Type

philosophical spiritual

When to use this quote

  • personal growth
  • leadership
  • spiritual practice
  • stress management

Key Concepts

Taoism effortless power non-attachment

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you cultivate effortless power in daily life?
  • What does it mean to be never disappointed?
A Different Perspective

It may be hard to maintain non-attachment in competitive environments.

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