So the wise soul

governing people

would empty their minds,

fill their bellies,

weaken their wishes,

strengthen their bones,

keep people unknowing,

unwanting,

keep the ones who do know

from doing anything.

but then

Wealth, status, pride,

are their own ruin.

later

Racing, chasing, hunting,

drives people crazy.

Trying to get rich

ties people in knots.

and

True leaders

are hardly known to their followers.

Next after them are the leaders

the people know and admire;

after them, those they fear;

after them, those they despise.