A Sturdy Trunk
Translation by Tree Buffalo
Nothing surpasses moderation in governing people or caring for the world.
Consider moderation as a kind of delaying.
Delaying allows the heavy accumulation of virtue.
The heavy accumulation of virtue means nothing is insurmountable.
And when nothing is insurmountable, people’s limits are unknown.
When people’s limits are unknown, they can maintain the country.
And when the country is maintained, its creative source will endure a long time.
This is what it means to have deep roots, a sturdy trunk, and long life.
It is the everlasting insight of Nature.
Read some of the first English translations of Chapter 59 here.
