Conversations of the Taoist Master Fu Hsiang

Men Chow: Undoubtedly.

Fu Hsiang: So courage is really love acting through the medium of danger. Whereas to place oneself in danger for selfish ends is not courage, but simply daring.

Men Chow: That seems fair.

Fu Hsiang: Do you not know that kind of person, who possesses insight into others and can see their weaknesses, and uses that power to wound and manipulate?

Men Chow: Certainly, these people can cause great damage.

Fu Hsiang: But if we have this same ability, but use it in the service of love, then is this not wisdom?

Men Chow: It is.

Fu Hsiang: And if we are in a position of power over others, but lack any concern for their welfare, do we not tend to tyranny and injustice by seeking only our own advantage?

Men Chow: We do.

Fu Hsiang: But if on the contrary, we act from love for our fellow human beings, then we will be just and temperate?

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