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Containing Virtue deeply, |
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is like a newborn child. |
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Bees, centipedes, vipers, and snakes do not sting; |
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fierce beasts do not pounce; |
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a seized bird does not struggle. |
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Bones are weak, tendons soft, yet the grip is firm. |
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Not knowing the union of female and male, yet complete in action— |
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this is the utmost essence. |
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Crying all day without becoming hoarse. |
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This is the utmost harmony. |
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Knowing harmony is called the constant, |
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knowing the constant is called clarity, |
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increasing life is called auspiciousness. |
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The heart commanding the breath is called strength. |
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When things are robust, they grow old; |
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this is called contrary to the Way, |
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contrary to the Way, it ends early. |