The Wisdom of Enough
This chapter teaches the wisdom of restraint. Pushing beyond sufficiency leads to decline. The sage finishes the task, then lets go — knowing when to stop is the Way of Heaven.
Better to stop
before the cup is full.
If you keep sharpening a blade,
it will soon become dull.
If gold and jade fill your house,
you can’t protect it all.
If wealth and fame make you proud,
you invite misfortune.
Complete your task,
then step back.
This is the way of Heaven.
