Chapter 22. Lifting the little ones
The one who adjusts, he stays until the end.
The one who bends is straightened.
The one who empties himself is filled.
The one who wears himself out is rejuvenated.
The one who demotes himself is promoted.¹
The one who promotes himself is demoted.
This is why the wise one hangs on to simplicity and is an example to all.
He is not selfish and because of this he gets praise.
He is not vain and therefore is valued.
He is not proud and therefore is respected.
And because he does not compete no-one is his enemy.
The old saying “Who adjusts, he stays until the end” is truly not said in vain.
Without doubt he will go home in peace.
- Mr. Ervast points out the obvious sameness with Luke 14:11 “For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.” (KJV)
Own translation from 1925 Finnish translation by Pekka Ervast (ISBN 951-8995-01-X) with kind permission of Ruusu-Ristin Kirjallisuusseura ry.