Tao te Ching

38 A man of superior virtue is not conscious of being virtuous, hence is truly virtuous. A man of inferior virtue performs for the purpose of virtue, hence he is not virtuous. A man of superior virtue acts without action, and performs with his true nature. A man of inferior virtue acts with intentional effort. A man of superior kindness acts a natural act. A man of superior justice acts with righteousness and feelings for others. A man of superior etiquette acts according to his true self, hence no one responds to him by moving away. There, when Tai is lost, there is Te (virtue). When Te is lost, there is humanity. When humanity is lost, there is justice. When justice is lost, there is etiquette. Etiquette becomes prevalent when people fail to be sincere and honest. Hence, chaos begins. A person of knowledge and self-opinion will be hindered from the enlightenment of Tao. Thus, this is the beginning of ignorance! Therefore, one who cultivates himself with Tao, Embraces the original nature and indulges not in sensual nature. He abides by the fundamental Oneness and indulges not in sensory pleasures. Thus, abandon those desires and abide by this true essence of Tao.