In the world, nothing is softer or weaker than water,
Yet, for attacking the hard and strong, nothing surpasses it,
There is nothing that can replace it.
The weak overcomes the strong, and the soft overcomes the hard.
There is no one in the world who doesn’t know this,
Yet no one can practice it.
Therefore, the sage says:
One who takes upon themselves the disgrace of the nation
Is called the master of the land.
One who bears the misfortunes of the nation
Is called the king of the world.
True words often sound paradoxical.
Water is the epitome of softness and weakness, yet it conquers the unyielding and the strong. This principle is widely known, but rarely practiced. The teaching highlights the power of humility and the strength in gentleness.
This reminds me of the Sunshine Policy, a metaphorical representation of water in addressing the frozen North-South relations. The softness of this approach seemed to embody the wisdom of Tao Te Ching—offering warmth instead of confrontation.
However, there are those who misunderstand softness and instead choose to assert their dominance. They hide behind strength, only to reveal actions unbecoming of a true leader. An example is a public figure whose arrogance led to actions like silencing voices during significant ceremonies, reflecting not strength but insecurity.
A leader who suppresses freedom and disregards constitutional obligations does not embody the ideals of a servant of the people. Even in systems of absolute monarchy, such behavior would face severe criticism. When such actions occur in a democratic framework, they represent a profound violation of trust.
Ultimately, the downfall of such individuals is inevitable. The refusal to embrace humility and softness—the very principles of strength—leads to isolation and disgrace. It is a stark reminder of the Tao’s timeless truth:
Softness triumphs over hardness, and humility is the ultimate strength.
Thank you.