67. Power in Action

Firmness in action is (simply) one's firmness of mind; all other (abilities) are not of this nature.

Not to perform a ruinous act, and not to be discouraged by the ruinous termination of an act, are the two maxims which, the wise say, from the principles of those who have investigated the subject.

So to perform an act as to publish it (only) at its termination is (true) manliness; for to announce it beforehand, will cause irremediable sorrow.

To say (how an act is to be performed) is (indeed) easy for any one; but far difficult it is to do according to what has been said.

The firmness in action of those who have become great by the excellence (of their counsel) will, by attaining its fulfilment in the person of the king, be esteemed (by all).

If those who have planned (an undertaking) possess firmness (in executing it) they will obtain what they have desired even as they have desired it.

Let none be despised for (their) size; (for) the world has those who resemble the linch-pin of the big rolling car.

An act that has been firmly resolved on must be as firmly carried out without delay.

Though it should cause increasing sorrow (at the outset), do with firmness the act that yield bliss (in the end).

The great will not esteem those who esteem not firmness of action, whatever other abilities the latter may possess.