Lately I’ve been reading this amazing book that I think everyone should own. It’s actually the most widely printed and translated book in the world, next to the bible. Much like the bible it proposes a spiritual approach to the material world, but unlike the bible, it’s quite succinct. I’m talking about the Tao Te Ching – or the Great Book of the Way to Virtue, a collection of 81 small texts authored by ancient Chinese prophet and philosopher Lao Tzu. I’ll show you one of my favorite texts from this book, and if that spikes your interest, feel free to check out this translation (one of my favorites), which is of course freely available online.

9

Fill your bowl to the brim
and it will spill.
Keep sharpening your knife
and it will blunt.
Chase after money and security
and your heart will never unclench.
Care about people’s approval
and you will be their prisoner.

Do your work, then step back.
The only path to serenity.