"When virtue is lost, benevolence appears, when benevolence is lost right conduct appears, when right conduct is lost, expedience appears. Expediency is the mere shadow of right and truth; it is the beginning of disorder"

This quote by Lao Tzu speaks with the value of virtue and benevolence in our lives. He suggests that when virtue is lost, benevolence appears in its location. When altruism is lost, ideal conduct appears. When ideal conduct is lost, expedience appears. Usefulness is the simple shadow of right and truth, and it is the beginning of condition.

Lao Tzu is cautioning us that when we lose sight of virtue and altruism, we are more likely to turn to usefulness. This is a hazardous path to take, as it leads to condition and mayhem. He is motivating us to strive for virtue and altruism in our lives, as these are the structures of a healthy and unified society. He is reminding us that when we prioritize usefulness over right and truth, we are setting ourselves up for failure.