One of the teachings of the Tao is that everything belongs to the Tao. In Chapter 9 of the Tao Te Ching, Laozi says that desire should be limited because everything is part of the Tao and that in order to live by the Tao there must be balance between Yin and Yang. “One should stop in due time Rather than fill it to the brim. When a point is too sharp, Its sharpness cannot remain too long. When a hall is full of gold and jade, Nobody can keep them long; When a man of wealth and rank is arrogant, He is looking for a calamity upon himself; When one succeeds and subsequently retires, He follows the true way of Heaven.” - Laozi The meaning of the Tao, Chapter 9, is the need for moderation (limitation) of desires. Taking moderation in what you have and not being quick to obtain more because it is not good. Within the Tao this means going with the flow of things and not reaching for more because that is the nature of things. Within Chapter 9 the line “One should stop in due time rather than fill it to the brim” (pg 81, line 1-2) is saying to know your limits. To not take on more than what you should, but to do the right amount and even taking on less is better than taking on more. This is because when taking on more you tend to overflow your cup meaning that you will take on more than you can handle which may lead you to trouble. The next line, “ When a point is too sharp, its sharpness cannot remain too long” (pg 81, lines 3-4) is saying that continuing sharpening a blade will eventually leading it to become dull. When compared to life this could mean that continuing doing something and it will eventually lose its interests. It can also mean that just because you are good at something and are at the top doesn't necessary means that you will always be at the top, someone will eventually surpass you. The final line, “When one succeeds and subsequently retires, he follows the true way of Heaven.” means that once you have ac