title: Tao Te Ching 8 - Water nourishes all things without trying to

Book - Tao Te Ching - Lao Tzu

Stephen Mitchell Translation

The supreme good is like water, which nourishes all things without trying to. It is content with the low places that people disdain. Thus it is like the Tao.

In dwelling, live close to the ground. In thinking, keep to the simple. In conflict, be fair and generous. In governing, don’t try to control. In work, do what you enjoy. In family life, be completely present.

When you are content to be simply yourself and don’t compare or compete, everybody will respect you - Stephen Mitchell


Other translations I like

The highest goodness resembles water Water greatly benefits myriad things without contention It stays in places that people dislike Therefore it is similar to the Tao

Dwelling at the right place Heart with great depth Giving with great kindness Words with great integrity Governing with great administration Handling with great capability Moving with great timing

Because it does not contend It is therefore beyond reproach - Derek Lin