Shouqing

Laozi said: A person is exposed to the qi of heaven. It is reflected in the eyes and ears in terms of sound and color, in the nose and mouth in terms of fragrance and odor, in the skin in terms of cold and warmth. All emotions are the same. Some are related to death, some to life, some to a gentleman, and some to a villain. Therefore, the control varies. The spirit is the pool of wisdom. When the spirit is clear, wisdom is bright. The heart of a wise person is the abode. When wisdom is fair, the heart is calm. People should not think of the flowing water but of the clear water, for it is clear and still. Therefore, only when the spirit is clear and the mind is calm can the emotions of things be expressed. Thus, those who use it must not use it. Those who are enlightened will not be defiled by dust and dirt; those who are clear will not be disturbed by desires. Therefore, when the mind reaches something, the spirit will be there with ease. Conversely, when the mind is empty, restlessness will be eliminated and hidden. This is the journey of a sage. Therefore, those who govern the world must understand the nature of life before they can succeed.