45: Appearances

45

The most complete seems lacking.
Yet in use it is not exhausted.
The most abundant seems empty.
Yet in use it is not drained.
The most straight seems curved.
The most able seems clumsy.
The most eloquent seems to stutter.
Movement overcomes cold.
Stillness overcomes heat.
Peace and quiet govern the world.

Appearances

Things aren't what they seem. We should not trust our perception, because it's rooted in our own mind's preconceptions. We often only see what we want to see, or what we expect to see. That may make life seem more agreeable to us, but it certainly flaws our judgment...

Here is my full commentary on this Tao Te Ching chapter:
Tao Te Ching Chapter 45 Translation and Commentary