45.

Great perfection may appear imperfect,

but its usefulness is inexhaustible.

Great abundance may appear empty,

but its usefulness cannot be exhausted.

Great correctness may appear twisted,

great skill appear crude,

great eloquence appear awkward.

Activity conquers cold;

inactivity conquers heat.

Clear serenity governs the world.

Ch’eng (“Perfection”): This character also means “completion,” “success,” or “finished.” But even perfection is transient, not a static concept, but constantly changing, evolving. Temporality itself is perfection.