When counseling rulers, observers of Tao do not advise force.
This is certain to bring consequences.
Where great armies have passed, thorn bushes thrive.
Famine follows in the wake of war.
A good ruler does only what is necessary to achieve results.
He does not abuse position.
Achieve results, but do not glory in them.
Achieve results, but do not boast.
Achieve results, but be not proud.
Achieve results, because there is no choice.
Achieve results, but do not overpower.
Doing more than necessary brings exhaustion.
This is not in harmony with Tao.
What is not in harmony with Tao soon perishes.