Lao Tzu. Tao te Ching (classic of the Way and the Power) (№ 353146)

The body of man at birth is gentle and lithe, but after death it becomes hard. All vegetal beings are also at its birth is gentle and lithe, and after death they become dry and brittle.
Powerful the tree will not stand in a storm. Or it is waiting for the axe. Lithe and gentle tree has an advantage here.
The one who is gentle and lithe walks the path of life. One who is not gentle and lithe walks the path of death.