This is verse 8 of the Tao Te Ching as it was written in Chinese about 2300 years ago. It is read in the traditional way from top to bottom starting in the far right column.

The two characters in the far right column tell us that this is verse 8. The text then begins in the next column to the left. Reading from the top, the first four characters tell us that it is best to be like water. The fourth character represents water, and the tiny circle next to it is just for punctuation.

Notice how the stroke marks in the character for water flow in all directions.

The fifty characters that comprise this verse advise us to emulate the qualities of water, and then provide the following suggestions for staying on the path:

Live in touch with the earth,
Meditate deeply in the heart.

Be generous in relationships,
Truthful in speech,
Consistent in leadership,
Competent in work,
And timely in actions.

The path of peace
Is forever honorable.