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Quotes by Chinese Authors
"One who never anticipates deceit or expects duplicity, and yet is the first to recognize such things " is that not a sage indeed?"
"With those who are kindthe sage is kindWith those who are not kindthe sage is also kindbecause the way of Tao is kindness."
"Clever talk, ingratiating looks, fawning reverence: Tso-ch'iu Ming found that shameful, and so do I. Friendly while harboring resentment: Tso-ch'iu Ming found that shameful, too, and so do I."
"Knowledge is merely brilliance in organization of ideas and not wisdom. The truly wise person goes beyond knowledge."
"To one who is not eager I do not reveal anything, nor do I explain anything to one who is not communicative. If I raise one corner for someone and he cannot come back with the other three, I do not go on."
"To be able under all circumstances to practice five things constitutes perfect virtue; these five things are gravity, generosity of soul, sincerity, earnestness and kindness."
"Violin playing is a physical art with great traditions behind it."
"The Master is cordial yet stern, awe-inspiring yet not fierce and respectful yet at ease."
"Language is insight itself."
"If we wish to fight, the enemy can be forced to an engagement even though he be sheltered behind a high rampart and a deep ditch. All we need do is attack some other place that he will be obliged to relieve."
"Great results, can be achieved with small forces."
"Failure is the foundation of success and the means by which it is achieved."
"Violence, even well intentioned, always rebounds upon oneself."
"Success in warfare is gained by carefully accommodating ourselves to the enemy's purpose."
"Knowing the enemy enables you to take the offensive, knowing yourself enables you to stand on the defensive."
"There is no illusion greater than fear."
"Who does not know the evils of war cannot appreciate its benefits."
"If your enemy is secure at all points, be prepared for him. If he is in superior strength, evade him. If your opponent is temperamental, seek to irritate him. Pretend to be weak, that he may grow arrogant. If he is taking his ease, give him no rest. If his forces are united, separate them. If sovereign and subject are in accord, put division between them. Attack him where he is unprepared, appear where you are not expected ."
"The Chinese culture belongs not only to the Chinese but also to the whole world."
"There was something undifferentiated and yet complete, which existed before Heaven and Earth. Soundless and formless, it depends on nothing and does not change. It operates everywhere and is free from danger. It may be considered the mother of the universe. I do not know its name; I call it Tao."
"If, on the other hand, in the midst of difficulties we are always ready to seize an advantage, we may extricate ourselves from misfortune."
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