译文及注释：
Translation:
The highest virtue is like water. Water is good at helping all things but does not contend with them. It stays in places that people dislike so it is very close to the Dao. The best person is naturally in a position that is not noticeable. Their heart is calm and unfathomable they treat others with sincerity love and selflessness they speak with integrity they govern with simplicity and efficiency they can govern the country well they are skilled in handling matters and they are good at seizing opportunities. Because they do not contend with others when dealing with people and matters they do not overly emphasize their own position thus avoiding or exacerbating conflicts.
Vibrant colors dazzle the eyes; noisy sounds impair hearing; strong odors harm the sense of taste; indulging in hunting and plundering leads to reckless thoughts; rare items lead people astray. Therefore the sage focuses on solving the basic needs of life and does not indulge in sensory pleasures so they must make choices.
In ancient times those who were good at following the Dao were subtle and profound and their understanding was beyond the reach of ordinary people.
Because they cannot be understood they can only be described reluctantly: they are cautious like crossing a river on thin ice in winter; they are vigilant like guarding against the invasion of neighboring countries; they are respectful like attending a banquet as a guest; they act freely like the slow melting of ice; they are simple and honest like unprocessed raw materials; they are vast and open-minded like deep valleys; they are magnanimous and tolerant like muddy water.
Who can make the turbid water calm down and gradually become clear?
Who can make the calm water move and gradually show vitality?
Those who adhere to the Dao will not be complacent. Because they are never complacent they can constantly renew themselves.
Bending can preserve and being pressed can stretch; sinking can be filled and decay can lead to renewal; singularity leads to gain while multiplicity leads to confusion. Therefore the sage understands the principle of unifying all things and can govern the world.
Not relying solely on their own perspective they can see clearly; not being self-righteous they are respected; not boasting about themselves they can see their achievements; not being arrogant they can endure for a long time.
Only with a non-contentious attitude can one have no one in the world who can contend with them.
The saying in ancient times yielding can preserve oneself is not an empty phrase. It can truly be achieved.
Standing on tiptoe to try to elevate oneself