Putting one's self last

"That by which the rivers and seas are the rulers of all the (smaller) valleys is their keeping well down. This is the reason why they reign over all the (smaller) valleys. Therefore the sage, when he wishes to be above (to rule) the people, must, in his language, keep below them. When he wishes to be before the people he must, in his person, keep behind them. In this way, while the sage really occupies a position above the people, they do not feel his weight. And while he occupies a position before the people, they do not suffer any inconvenience. Therefore the world delights to exalt him, and no one is offended. Because he strives not, therefore none in the world can possibly strive with him."