LOST PROPERTY
Lose patience, but gain perseverance.
Kerb impatience, but exert determination.Dismiss adulation, but accept congratulation.
Reject servility, but acknowledge loyalty.Diminish attachment, but strengthen commitment.
Disown possessiveness, but welcome fidelity.
Demote discrimination, but promote discernment.
Temper prejudice, but sharpen judgement.
The sage is a loser;
but finds the Way!
Taoism frequently reiterates the contrast
between 'unbalanced' / unstable attitudes, actions or
reactions and more 'balanced' alternatives.
For example behaviour prompted by anger, revenge, jealousy,
etc is compared unfavourably to that of more subtle, moderated
qualities.
From this perspective, losing or shedding the extremes
of excessive egotism encourages a more equable spirit to
emerge and flourish.
