Stephen Mitchell译《道德经》第8章

第八章

上善若水

水善利万物而不争

处众人之所恶

故几于道

居善地

心善渊

与善仁

言善信

正善治

事善能

动善时

夫唯不争

故无尤

Chapter 8

The supreme good is like water,

which nourishes all things without trying to.

It is content with the low places that people disdain.

Thus it is like the Tao.

In dwelling, live close to the ground.

In thinking, keep to the simple.

In conflict, be fair and generous.

In governing, don't try to control.

In work, do what you enjoy.

In family life, be completely present.

When you are content to be simply yourself

and don't compare or compete,

everybody will respect you.