If the shout is not heard, he will shout again, And yet again, and begin cursing. And all because there is somebody in the boat. Yet if the boat were empty He would not be shouting and angry. If you can empty your own boat Crossing the river of the world, No one will oppose you, No one will seek to harm you. The straight tree is the first to be cut down, The spring of clear water is the first to be drained dry.
Achievement is the beginning of failure.
Fame is the beginning of disgrace. Simple he is, without distinction. To all appearances he is a fool. His steps leave no trace. He has no power.