A MATTER OF SUBSTANCE

The rugged mountain soars, hard and firm.
The fleecy cloud floats, soft and wavering.
The sage is a rock - and a breeze.

The peak cleaves the cloud,
splitting and sundering;
yet does no harm.

The cloud rains on the peak;
and little by little, age by age,
wears all away.

Losing stature?
Gaining character!

The concept of weakness overcoming strength, or hardness yielding to softness, is frequently reiterated and fundamental to Taoism.
It underlines the importance of dynamic balance between 'yang' and 'yin' tendencies and of how it can become restored or maintained.

Rather than mere triumph or defeat, 'overcoming' in this context signifies the restoration of order and stability from chaos and confusion.

This concept may be manifested within individuals, social relationships, organisations of all sizes, even entire cultures and civilisations.
The rebalancing that follows a period of crisis provides an opportunity for adaptation, renewed growth and enhanced resilience.