“Its upper part is not bright, and its lower part is not obscure.”

“We should blunt our sharp points, and unravel the complications of things; we should attemper our brightness, and bring ourselves into agreement with the obscurity of others.”

“all streams flow to the sea because it is lower than they are. humility gives it its power. if you want to govern the people, you must place yourself below them. if you want to lead the people, you must learn how to follow them.”

“When the work is done, and one's name is becoming distinguished, to withdraw into obscurity is the way of Heaven.”

“Heaven which by it is bright and pure;”

“Its admirable words can purchase honor; (its) admirable deeds can raise their performer above others.”

“The flame that burns Twice as bright burns half as long.”