Tao Te Ching

The Power of Goodness, the Wisdom Beyond Words
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Art of Worldly Wisdom
Chapter 86
Dodging Slander

Ramcreativ

The small-hearted mob finds it much easier to tear those above them down than to improve and raise themselves up. Because much more numerous, this group spawns multiple prying eyes of malice, malicious tongues of slander, and avid ears searching for faults. Seizing on or inventing a small defect, they propagate demeaning nicknames, cultivate rumors, and destroy reputations. Imagined scandals attract much more interest and belief than more mundane and envy-inspiring accomplishments. Easier to prevent than heal, only careful and skillful vigilance avoids these negative consequences.

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