Chương Chương 24 · Chapter 24

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24. He who stands on his tiptoes does not stand firm; he who stretches

his legs does not walk (easily). (So), he who displays himself does

not shine; he who asserts his own views is not distinguished; he who

vaunts himself does not find his merit acknowledged; he who is

self-conceited has no superiority allowed to him. Such conditions,

viewed from the standpoint of the Tao, are like remnants of food, or a

tumour on the body, which all dislike. Hence those who pursue (the

course) of the Tao do not adopt and allow them.