The natural state of creation is wholeness.
In the natural state, heaven is clear,
The earth is calm, and men fulfill their purpose.
In the natural state, rulers honor the people
And are models for the world.
When creation isn’t in a state of wholeness,
The sky is polluted, the earth is ravaged,
And men live only for themselves.
Therefore, the superior people,
Realize the inferior aspects of themselves.
The high recognize the lowness
From where they came.
The practice of alchemy
Is the journey from fragmentation
Back to wholeness.
Let yourself be shaped by the Tao,
As a jewels form from common stones.
