Leadership and Growth

Studying the Way is like planting a tree -
if you cut it just when it branches out,
it can be used for firewood;
if you cut it when it's about to reach full growth,
it can be used for rafters;
if you cut it when it's somewhat stronger,
it can be used for beams;
and if you cut it when it's old and huge,
it can be used for pillars.
Could it be that when you take the attainment
over the long run the profit is greater?

- Zen Lessons, The Art of Leadership