Translation by Sifu John A. Fey
1 stand in the shape of greatness with feet resting firmly upon the land and arms ringed as if holding a large tree embracing and holding the vastness of the tao source of life
2 it seems silly that such a simple activity can bring you to greatness but it can
3 in fact
if it didn't appear silly and simple it would not be worth it at all
4 stand in the shape of greatness
radiating a mother's love for all the world restraining the outflowing of your lifeforce remaining vigilant and aware of the world's
momentum
5 for a mother's love is selfless and fearless restrained lifeforce is amplified until needed
and vigilance will help you avoid the knives that are all around you
6 for true greatness to present itself moderation is the key
7 being too compassionate in your life being too generous with your life
being the leader who saves everyone else's life will end your own before its time
8 a mother's love is an impenetrable fortress a mother's love is an unstoppable weapon
9 stand in the shape of greatness
with a mother's love
and heaven will flow into you
1 HAND: "Stand[ing] in the shape of greatness" means several things:
a. The stanza adequately describes the physicality and the intent of the meditative posture.
b. Normal human happiness usually relies on clinging to past memories that we associate with being happy.
However, to be truly happy, the Taoist must let go of his accepted notions about happiness. "Stand[ing] in the shape of greatness" means giving up your attachment to past and current sources of happiness and making yourself a fit receptacle for some new source to come in.
2-3 MIND: The simplest approaches are the best.
Complex methods are neither productive nor useful.
4-5 HAND: Assume the "shape of greatness" and radiate love and compassion to everyone and everything around you. While the love and compassion radiated outward should flow unrestricted, your qi should only be extended sparingly. Attempt to be completely and totally aware of your immediate surroundings.
6 HAND and MIND: Practice this meditation gently; take it easy.
7 HEART and BODY: This stanza advocates moderation when helping others. Sacrificing yourself for the sake of others is not a Taoist virtue. Eventually, it will destroy your spirit.
8 MIND: The mother referred to in this stanza is the Primal Mother.
9 HAND: Cultivating the "shape of greatness" allows the Tao Source to flow into your bodymind.