Tao Te Ching - 7

Heaven is long-lasting and Earth endures.

They can be long-lasting and enduring

Because they do not live for themselves.

Thus, they can last long.

The Taoist puts himself last, so he is ahead.

He is detached and remains secure.

Is it not because he is selfless

That he can achieve his goals?

Translated by Chiyan Wang

Edited by Robert Smitheram Ph.D

This chapter emphasizes the concept of selflessness and the paradox that by not putting oneself first, one can achieve lasting presence and success. A cultivator's goal is to benefit all sentient beings, which aligns with the Tao. When one follows the Tao, everything else follows effortlessly.