Line by Line - Verse 59, Lines 1-2

For regulating the human (in our constitution) and rendering the (proper) service to the heavenly, there is nothing like moderation.
~ James Legge translation, from The Sacred Books of the East, 1891 ~

In caring for others and serving heaven,
There is nothing like using restraint.
~ Gia-fu Feng and Jane English translation, published by Vintage Books, 1989 ~

In governing people and serving Heaven
There is nothing like conservation
~ Derek Lin translation, from Tao Te Ching: Annotated & Explained, published by SkyLight Paths, 2006 ~

Leadership is based on moderation.
~ Ron Hogan rendition, from Beatrice.com, 2004 ~

Let's look at these lines in terms of ourselves. When we expect far too much and it is not achieved, we beat ourselves up for our lack of success. When we expect too little of ourselves, we have low self-esteem and even reachable goals seem like a bridge too far.

When we are somewhere between these two extremes, our chances for self-confidence are greatly enhanced. We are more apt to take on challenges and to meet with some degree of success.

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