The ancient TAOists are as profound, subtle and mysterious as the TAO. Their wisdom is unfathomable. As with the TAO, they can only be described by means of images. They are careful as one crossing an iced-over stream; alert as a warrior in enemy territory; courteous and respectful as a guest; fluid as melting ice; shapeable as an un-carved block of wood; chameleon-like, able to change their mask in accordance with the occasion; receptive as a valley; clear as a glass of pure water; sublime, obscure, and penetrating. Do you have the patience to wait until the mud settles and the water is clear? Can you remain unmoving until the right action arises by itself? The TAOist does not seek to be filled nor exhausted. Not seeking, not expecting, not lusting for results; always present, able to welcome all; transparent, genuine, tranquil and quiet, laying low and making no ripples in the environment. By knowing how to retreat, when to rest, when to withdraw from the activity of the world, to shut-down and return to the dynamic still point for self-regeneration. The TAOist attitude is one of reverence and circumspection. The rhythm of retreat and clarification readjusts the balance and brings about harmony in the world. The TAO unites the world into one whole. All has the TAO in common. Know when to hold-up. Know when to fold-up. Know when to walk away. Know when to run.