A great state maintains a low posture. A low position is where everything in the world meets, where the world's feminine and gentle elements gather. The feminine and gentle elements often triumph over the masculine and powerful through stillness, and it is stillness which keeps it in the lower position. Thus when a great state treats a small state with modesty,it can win the trust and following of the latter. When a smaller state treats a greater one humbly, it can win its acceptance and tolerance. Hence by behaving modestly,great states win the trust and following of small ones, while small states win acceptance and tolerance from great ones. Great states only wish to gather smaller ones around themselves and support them; small states only wish to attach themselves to and serve great ones. Hence states both great and small can achieve their goals, and the great ones in particular should maintain a low stance. (Laozi)