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Is not the action of nature like the stretching of a bow?…

“Is not the action of nature like the stretching of a bow? The high, it pulls down; the low, it lifts up; It takes from what is in excess In order to make good of what is deficient. Who can take what they have in excess and offer it to others?” quote by Laozi
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“Is not the action of nature like the stretching of a bow? The high, it pulls down; the low, it lifts up; It takes from what is in excess In order to make good of what is deficient. Who can take what they have in excess and offer it to others?”

Laozi

About This Quote

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

Nature balances excess and deficiency, like a bow that pulls down the high and lifts the low, urging sharing of surplus for collective good.

In simple terms: Nature balances excess and deficiency, urging sharing of surplus.

Key Takeaway

Share excess to help those lacking.

Themes

balance reciprocity nature ethics

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • community aid
  • environmental stewardship
  • resource redistribution
  • social welfare

Key Concepts

Taoism interdependence resource allocation

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you identify your personal excess to share?
  • What barriers prevent you from offering surplus?
A Different Perspective

Excess may be essential for personal growth; sharing can be limited by scarcity.

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