When the leader governs lightly,
The people are at ease.
When the leader governs harshly,
The people become crafty.
The sage is wise, but not cunning.
He is sharp, but not cutting.
He makes his point,
But is not demeaning.
He is bright
But is not flashy.
From The Alchemist’s Tao Te Ching: Transforming Your Lead Into Gold