The Short of It:
Nurture those in your care anonymously. You do not need their attention, for it is dangerous.
17. Genuineness.
In the highest antiquity people knew only of the existence of their superiors. In the next (age) they became attached to them, and flattered them. In the next they dreaded them. In the next they despised them. For where faith is insufficient, it is not met by faith.
How cautious they (the ancient sages) were in weighing their words! When they had completed a meritorious work, and affairs were prosperous, the people all (unconscious) said, “We are just as we are naturally.”
17. ‘the unadulterated influence.’
17.1 In the highest antiquity, (the people) did not know that there were (rulers). In the next age they loved them and praised them. In the next they feared them; in the next they despised them. Thus it was that when faith (in the Tao) was deficient (in the rulers) a want of faith in them ensued (in the people).
17.2 How irresolute did those (earliest rulers) appear, showing (by their reticence) the importance which they set upon their words! Their work was done and their undertakings were successful, while the people all said, ‘We are as we are, of ourselves!’
17. simplicity in habits.
17.1 Of great rulers the subjects do not notice the existence. To lesser ones people are attached; they praise them. Still lesser ones people fear, and the meanest ones people despise.
17.2 For it is said:
“If your faith be insufficient, verily, you will receive no faith.”
17.3 How reluctantly they [the great rulers] considered their words! Merit they accomplished; deeds they performed; and the hundred families thought: “We are independent.”
The Long of It:
Government (or any position of power) is potentially cyclical. Successful governing invites praise and acceptance, but also invites dependence on that acceptance (see Chap 13). Powerful people often feel threatened, especially by public disapproval, and try to force acceptance.
Avoid this acceptance all together by nurturing the people as anonymously as possible. Make them think they did it themselves and owe thanks to no one. Because as soon as they notice your role, you are in danger.
Any position of power is, by definition, a superior position to someone: whether it’s ruler, boss, teacher, parent, or simply the stronger or smarter person. Get the most out of those in your care by nurturing them behind the scenes. Anything more risks manipulation.
-TB
