The Way of Heaven is like stretching a bow, isn't it? The Way of Heaven is obscure; therefore, things are used as metaphors. Those who are high should be suppressed, those who are low should be elevated; those with excess should be reduced, and those lacking should be supplemented. It means that the bow must be drawn in harmony and balance; only then can it be used. To suppress the high, elevate the low, reduce the strong, and assist the weak — this is the Way of Heaven. The way of Heaven reduces what is in excess and supplements what is lacking. The Way of Heaven reduces the excessive and benefits the humble, always valuing harmony and balance as supreme. Human ways are not like this; they take from what is lacking to serve what is in excess. The human way is contrary to the Way of Heaven; worldly people take from the poor to serve the rich, and seize from the weak to benefit the strong. Who can have surplus to offer to the world? Only those who follow the Way. Who could occupy a position of abundance, yet examine their own rank and emoluments to offer them to those in the world who are lacking? Only a ruler who follows the Way is able to act thus. Therefore, the sage acts without relying on it. The sage practices virtue and kindness but does not depend on receiving reward. Success is achieved without claiming a position; when success is attained, one does not hold onto the position. They do not desire to display their virtue. They do not wish for people to know of their virtue; they conceal merit and do not dwell in glory, fearing Heaven's reduction of excess.