Tao Te Ching
Tao Te Ching, Chapter 6
Chapter 6 of Tao Te Ching translated by James Legge (1893)
Translation
6.
The valley spirit dies not, aye the same; The female mystery thus do we name. Its gate, from which at first they issued forth, Is called the root from which grew heaven and earth. Long and unbroken does its power remain, Used gently, and without the touch of pain.
Practical Reading
The valley represents emptiness ready to receive. In modern terms, this is the power of listening. Empty yourself of preconceptions to truly hear others. Great leaders create space for others to contribute. This emptiness is not weakness but receptive strength.