The softest thing in the universe overcomes the hardest thing in the universe.

"The softest thing in the universe
Overcomes the hardest thing in the universe.
That without substance can enter where there is no room.
Hence I know the value of non-action.

Teaching without words and work without doing
Are understood by very few."

Lao Tsu
6th century B.C.E., China

Photo: Falls with Thimbleberry (Boulder Raspberry) flowers, Lory State Park, CO, May 12, 2015

The highest good is like water . . .

"The highest good is like water.
Water gives life to the ten thousand things and does not strive.
It flows to places people reject and so is like the Tao . . .
The great Tao flows everywhere, both to the left and to the right.
The ten thousand things depend upon it; it holds nothing back.
It fulfills its purpose silently and makes no claim.
It nourishes the ten thousand things,
And yet it is not their lord . . .
The ten thousand things return to it,
Yet it is not their lord.
It is very great.
It does not show greatness,
And is therefore truly great."

Lao Tsu,
China, 6th century B.C.E.

Photos: Lodgepole Pine cones and Copland Falls, Rocky Mountain National Park, CO, April 12, 2015

For attacking the solid and strong, nothing is better than water.

 

 "Under heaven nothing is more soft and yielding than water.

 "Yet for attacking the solid and strong, nothing is better; it has no equal.

"The weak can overcome the strong; the supple can overcome the stiff. Under heaven everyone knows this, yet no one puts it into practice."

Lao Tsu,
6th century B.C.E., China

Photos: Waterfalls, Rocky Mountain National Park, CO; September 8 and 15, 2014