This poem is a translation of Tao Te Ching, Chapter 17, written by Lao Tse three thousand years ago. There are 27 known different translations of this, because the meanings from that long ago are very fluid. This version has been used, as far as I know, as inspiration for community workers since the nineteen fifties. We are looking to translate it into as many languages as possible, so if you can translate it into a language not yet indicated on this page, please let us know. Phil
GO
to the People;
Live among them;
Love them;
Learn from them;
Start from where they are;
Work with them;
Build on what they have.
But of the best leaders,
When the task is accomplished,
The work completed,
The people all remark:
"We have done it ourselves"
Lao Tsu
Other Translations:
––»«––
Community Gathering; Raising Awareness:
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Following the path of least resistance makes all rivers and some men crooked
Copyright: Phil Bartle
Last update: 2008.05.23
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