Lao Tzu Tao Teachings - Verse 61

A great country is like the low lands
where all the streams unite.

In all things under heaven
the female overcomes the male by her stillness,
and because she is still she lies below.

Hence, if the great country will take the low place
it will win over the little country.
If the little country will take the low place
it will win over the great country.
Thus, the one gets below and prospers
and the other remains below and prospers.

All that the great country wants is more people.
All that the little country wants is a place
for its people to go and to be employed.

If each is to get what it wants
it is necessary for the great country
to take the low place.

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