When Chuang-tzu was old and knew he was soon going to die, his disciples gave a large, impressive funeral to show their great respect and love for him. Chuang-tzu protested and said, "I shall have heaven and earth for my coffin, the sun and moon for my two round symbols of jade, and the stars and constellations as my jewels. Isn't that more than anyone could possibly want?"

The disciples responded, "But we are afraid that the crows will eat you, Master."

Chuang-tzu smiled at them benevolently and said, "Above, the crows will eat me. Below, the moles and ants will eat me. To give to these and take from those would only show your one-sidedness. All are equal under the Tao." These were the last words of Chuang-tzu, a man who wholeheartedly devoted his entire life to the Taoist Way.