All things Quote by Laozi
“Success is as dangerous as failure. Hope is as hollow as fear. What does it mean that success is a dangerous as failure? Whether you go up the ladder or down it, you position is shaky. When you stand with your two feet on the ground, you will always keep your balance. What does it mean that hope is as hollow as fear? Hope and fear are both phantoms that arise from thinking of the self. When we don't see the self as self, what do we have to fear? See the world as your self. Have faith in the way things are. Love the world as your self; then you can care for all things.”
About This Quote
Source Philosophy: Tao Te Ching, Chapter 33, c. 400 BC
Success and failure both carry hidden perils; hope and fear are empty constructs that arise from self‑attachment.
In simple terms: Success and failure are risky; hope and fear are empty.
Key Takeaway
Stay grounded and see beyond self‑interest.
Themes
balance
self‑awareness
impermanence
Mood
calm
reflective
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- career decisions
- personal growth
- meditation
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
Taoism
psychology
spirituality
Questions to Reflect On
- How does grounding yourself reduce fear?
- What does seeing the world as self change your actions?
A Different Perspective
Neglecting self‑reflection can amplify these dangers.
