those who wish to change the world

according with their desire

cannot succeed.

the world is shaped by the way;

it cannot be shaped by the self.

trying to change it, you damage it;

trying to possess it, you lose it. so some will lead, while others follow.

some will be warm, others cold

some will be strong, others weak.

some will get where they are going

while others fall by the side of the road.

so the sage will be neither wasteful nor violent.