15.
The ancient masters were subtle, mysterious, profound, responsive
The depth of their knowledge is unfathomable
Because it is unfathomable
All we can do is describe their appearance
Watchful, like men crossing a winter stream
Alert, like men aware of danger
Courteous, like visiting guests
Yielding, like ice about to melt
Simple, like uncarved blocks of wood
Hollow, like caves
Opaque, like muddy pools
Who can wait quietly while the mud settles ?
Who can remain still until the moment of action ?
Observers of the Tao do not seek fulfillment
Not seeking fulfillment, they are not swayed by desire for change
