(The master of it) anticipates things that are difficult while they are easy, and does things that would become great while they are small. All difficult things in the world are sure to arise from a previous state in which they were easy, and all great things from one in which they were small. Therefore the sage, while he never does what is great, is able on that account to accomplish the greatest things.Tao Te Ching 63.2 · Tao Te Ching
Tao Te Ching 63.2
Tao Te Ching · translated by James Legge
Themes in this passage
Patience in other traditions
The same theme, as Christianity, Islam, Hinduism and Buddhism address it.
And so, after he had patiently endured, he obtained the promise.Hebrews 6:15 · Bible · Hebrews
But be patient (O Muhammad) with a patience fair to see.Quran 70:5 · Quran
The pious king, with grief distressed, The noble hundred thus addressed: "With patience, daughters, bear your fate, Yours was a deed supremely great When with one mind you kept from shame The honour of your father's name. Patience, when men their anger vent, Is woman's praise and ornament; Yet when the Gods inflict the blow Hard is it to support the woe. Patience, my girls, exceeds all price: 'Tis alms, and truth, and sacrifice. Patience is virtue, patience fame: Patience upholds this earthly frame. And now, I think, is come the time To wed you in your maiden prime. Now, daughters, go where'er you will: Thoughts for your good my mind shall fill."Ramayana 1.140 · Ramayana · 1
Silently shall I endure abuse as the elephant in battle endures the arrow sent from the bow: for the world is ill-natured.Dhp 23.320 · Dhammapada · The Elephant
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