modesty means success

symbolized by a mountain in the center of the earth

modesty means balance,

taking from too much and augmenting what is little

to balance means to never overfill,

less than all can be quite satisfying

“he who possesses something great must not make it too full”

modesty reflects the handle of character,

gives honor and shines forth,

and he who is honored spreads radiance-

for the modest will elevate and grow full

…the way to expansion leads through contracting

…carry all things to their conclusion

…effort leads to achievement

…a man not boasting or calling his merits virtuous is a man of great parts

the earth is still,

it does not act of itself

but remains constantly receptive to the influences of heaven:

thus, its life becomes inexhaustible and eternal

man, likewise, attains eternity

if he does not strive vaingloriously

to achieve everything

from his own strength,

but quietly persevering,

keeping himself receptive

to the impulses freely flowing to him

from life’s creative forces

 Bisbee, 1980