Ancient Excellence

"Ancient masters of excellence had a subtle essence, And a depth too profound to comprehend. Because they were impossible to comprehend, I will try to describe them by their appearance. Cautious, like crossing a river in the winter. Wary, as if surrounded by strangers. Dignified, like a guest. Yielding, like ice about to melt. Simple, like uncarved wood. Open, like a valley. Obscure, like muddy waters. Who can wait in stillness while the mud settles? Who can rest until the moment of action? He who holds on to the Way seeks no excess. Since he lacks excess, He can grow old in no need to be renewed."