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         As it acts in the world, the Tao

        is like the bending of a bow.

        The top is bent downward;

        the bottom is bent up.

        It adjusts excess and deficiency

        so that there is perfect balance.

        It takes from what is too much

        and gives to what isn't enough.

      Those who try to control,

        who use force to protect their power,

        go against the direction of the Tao.

        They take from those who don't have enough

        and give to those who have far too much.

      The Master can keep giving

        because there is no end to her wealth.

        She acts without expectation,

        succeeds without taking credit,

        and doesn't think that she is better

        than anyone else.