How did the great rivers and seas become the lords of the ravines? By being good at keeping low. That was how they became lords of the Ravines.
Therefore in order to be the chief among the people, one must speak like their inferiors.
In order to be foremost among the people, one must walk behind them.
Thus it is that the Sage stays above, and the people do not feel his weight.
Walks in front, and the people do not wish him harm.
Then the people of the world are glad to uphold him forever.
Because he does not contend, no one in the world can contend against him.
(Tao Teh King 66)
How did the great rivers and seas become the lords of the ravines? By being good at keeping low. That was how they became Lords of the Ravines.
Once again we see that humility and self-effacement are the secret of advancement and wide influence.
Therefore in order to be the chief among the people, one must speak like their inferiors. Wu: “Therefore, the Sage reigns over the people by humbling himself in speech.” Feng and English: “If the sage would guide the people, he must serve with humility.” Byrn: “If you want to be the ruler of people, you must speak to them like you are their servant.”
In order to be foremost among the people, one must walk behind them. Wu: “And leads the people by putting himself behind.” Byrn: “If you want to lead other people, you must put their interest ahead of your own.” We must learn to sincerely put others first and at the same time be an example for them to see and follow of their own accord.
Thus it is that the Sage stays above, and the people do not feel his weight. Mabry: “That way when the sage takes a position of power the people will not feel oppressed.” Byrn: “The people will not feel like they are being manipulated, if a wise person is in front as their leader.” Freedom of thought and deed results from the example of a wise person.
[He] walks in front, and the people do not wish him harm. Mabry: “And when the Sage leads the people will not think he is in the way.” Blackney: “His station is ahead of them To see they do not come to harm.” The wise one neither pushes from behind nor pulls from in front.
Then the people of the world are glad to uphold him forever. Because he does not contend, no one in the world can contend against him. Mabry: “Because he refuses to compete, The world cannot compete with him.” Never a burden, the sage only uplifts and inspires. Therefore those around him are always in favor of his worthy words and actions. He does not lead them, but they model themselves after his example because they wish to be like him. This is the highest form of leadership.
Next in the Tao Teh King for Awakening: The Three Treasures