long ago, the ancients believed...

The actions of great leaders inspire.

Trusting the Dao, they proceed calmly.

Perceptive, they quietly cultivate merit.

With ingenuity, when their work is done,

The people rejoice; “we did it ourselves!”,

Content, believing all is as nature planned.

Thus, letting go of their own designs,

Great leaders transcend their own being.

Echoing across the Heavens & the Earth,

As sages, they recognize the Dao within.

Embracing what was & what is to come,

As guardians, they achieve immortality.