There is nothing that surpasses ruling with benevolence. However, to put into practice enough benevolent governing to rule the country is difficult. To do this lukewarmly would result in neglect. If governing with benevolence is difficult, then it is best to govern strictly. To govern strictly mans to be strict before things have arisen, and to do things in such a way that evil will not arise. To be strict after the evil has arisen is like laying a snare. There are few people who will make mistakes with fire after having once been burned. Of people who regard water lightly, many have been drowned. – Tzu Ch’an (Hagakure – “In the shadow of the leaves”)
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