Tao Te Ching Chapter 44

Translation by John H. McDonald

Which is more important, your honor or your life?

Which is more valuable, your possessions or your person?

Which is more destructive, success or failure?

Because of this, great love extracts a great cost

and true wealth requires greater loss.

Knowing when you have enough avoids dishonor,

and knowing when to stop will keep you from danger

and bring you a long, happy life.


Reference: Tao Te Ching