the short of it:
Yang energy is potent, but limited. Keep to the yin, and be limitless.
9. equalization.
It is better to desist than to go on grasping at fulness. Handling and sharpening cannot last long.
When gold and gems fill the hall none can protect them.
Wealth and honour with pride bring their own punishment.
When a work of merit is done and reputation is coming, to get out of the way is the Tau of Heaven.
9. (untitled).
9.1 It is better to leave a vessel unfilled, than to attempt to carry it when it is full. If you keep feeling a point that has been sharpened, the point cannot long preserve its sharpness.
9.2 When gold and jade fill the hall, their possessor cannot keep them safe. When wealth and honours lead to arrogancy, this brings its evil on itself. When the work is done, and one’s name is becoming distinguished, to withdraw into obscurity is the way of Heaven.
9. Practising placidity.
9.1 Grasp to the full, are you not likely foiled? Scheme too sharply, can you wear long? If gold and jewels fill the hall no one can protect it.
9.2 Rich and high but proud, brings about its own doom. To accomplish merit and acquire fame, then to withdraw, that is Heaven’s Way.
