The poem begins with a series of paradox’s, “Yield and overcome; Bend and be straight; Empty and be full; Wear out and be new.” If taken literally it can be assumed that the author must be confused or mistaken. However it seems that the author is giving us a sort of guideline to living a fulfilling life. If one decides to “yield” to obstacles that they may meet in life it is only then that they will be able to “overcome” it. If one decides that they do not need worldly possessions to be happy they will be “empty” in that sense but will be “full” of content with what they do have. If one has “little” then everything they get will be a “gain.” Even when you “have much” in the sense of knowledge, you should “be confused” because there is much for life to offer and it is impossible to know it all unless you are open to it.
The poem goes on to say “Therefore the wise embrace the one, And set an example to all.” This shows how when one follows these guidelines in life, others will take notice of how well a life “the one” seems to be living and use them as an example to live their own life. Furthermore, the poem continues to imply that the one who listens to these rules should be humble and modest, setting an example for others by simply being and not asking for others to take notice. For if they seek the attention of others then they will find themselves faltering, or in quarrels with others.
The poem ends with “Be really whole, And all things will come to you.” To me the author is stating that if a person is content and feels fulfilled in their life by following these guidelines, that only then will everything that they encounter will feel like a gift in its own sense.