From the Book of Tao

Lao Tzu

Rhyme and Reason by Jim Clatfelter 

Words and names are not the way

They can't define the absolute

It's better that you look within

Hold your tongue and just be mute

Lao Tzu
 So stay within the emptiness

Unless you rise you never fall

Accepting that which comes your way

You are forever all in all

Lao Tzu
 Best to be so empty-headed

That it seems you've lost it all

You will know you're on the way

Though others say you're at a stall

Lao Tzu
 Don't fill a bowl

Till it's more than full

Or sharpen a blade

Till it must go dull

Lao Tzu
The openness within a house

Provides location to reside

The open space that is my heart

Is where ten thousand things abide

Lao Tzu
Too much sound can make you deaf

Too many colors leave you blind

Can you let desire die down

And not leave emptiness behind?

Lao Tzu
 If use of weapons has to be

When enemies just leave no choice

Use them but reluctantly

In victory do not rejoice

Lao Tzu
Be still