| | The sun and moon wish to shine, but floating clouds cover them; the Yellow River wishes to be clear, but silt and soil defile it. Clusters of orchids wish to flourish, but autumn winds destroy them. Human nature wishes for tranquility, yet desires harm it. To remain free from dust while being covered in dirt is impossible. Mountains attain their height and thus clouds and rain arise therefrom. Water attains its depth and thus dragons are born therein. A junzi (gentleman) attains the Dao, and virtue and grace flow from him. He who possesses hidden virtue will surely receive visible reward; he who performs concealed deeds will surely attain a distinguished reputation.
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