Once upon a time, those who excelled at practicing Tao were subtle, mysterious, abstract and penetrating. They were so deep that we couldn't know them. As we could not know them, I will try to give an idea of what they look like.
They were as cautious as one who crosses a river in winter. They were discreet like someone who fears to disturb his neighbors. They were serious and respectful like a distinguished guest. They were erased like melting ice. They were simple and sober like unworked wood. They were open and generous like a huge valley. They were as accommodating as silty water.
Who knows how to still troubled water little by little and make it clear? Who knows how to animate peaceful water little by little and give birth to life?
The one who knows how to master this Way (Tao) is not vainglorious. Only the one who is not vainglorious can achieve great fulfillment in silence.