Do not blindly believe hearsay or rumors. Many things can only be distinguished as true or false after seeing them with your own eyes. Some experiences must be personally lived through before their true feelings and outcomes can be understood. It is much like the “telephone game” often seen in entertainment shows, where the message becomes completely different after being passed along repeatedly. This is the result of errors occurring in the middle process. The more intermediate steps there are, the greater the deviation from reality becomes. Therefore, whenever possible, it is best to experience things firsthand; otherwise, it may be impossible to gain a truly accurate understanding.
To take control of your life, flexibility is essential. One must constantly judge whether certain rules or approaches are suitable under different circumstances. Often, a small adjustment or a break from fixed patterns of thinking can move things forward significantly. Rigid thinking traps people in the same place, preventing them from exploring the broader world, and in some situations, such limitations can even become dangerous.
When it is difficult to apologize directly, a subtle expression of apology can also be meaningful. Many people who openly find excuses while admitting mistakes are not necessarily sincere in changing themselves. In contrast, those who express apology in a more reserved way are often more trustworthy and genuine.
The clay pot replied, “Thank you for your kindness, aluminum pot, but staying close to you is exactly what I do not wish for. If you could stay farther away, I could continue drifting safely. If I accidentally hit you, you would shatter me into pieces.” The aluminum pot intended to protect the clay pot, yet failed to realize that it itself had become the clay pot’s greatest threat. This shows that love can become not only a source of motivation but also a burden. When love turns into a burden, it may bring not happiness, but pain and danger to the person receiving it.
To truly master oneself is to always maintain a clear mind and an open heart. When facing problems, try to stand higher and see farther; when dealing with situations, learn to think from different perspectives and place yourself in others’ positions. Be free from greed and jealousy in character, and avoid flattery and arrogance in dealing with others. Always keep a calm and balanced mindset, neither aiming unrealistically high nor falling into extremes.
