In the heat of love, one need not be overly pragmatic, but after heartbreak, one must embrace reality; no matter how reluctant, one must eventually let go. Since the goal is a distant horizon, one should maintain calmness and composure. The bountiful harvest of autumn relies on the diligent sowing of spring; the vastness of the ocean relies on the continuous rushing of small streams. Everything is dialectical: when you gain something, you often lose something else; when you lose something, you may simultaneously gain something new. Though we cannot change the world around us, we can change ourselves, facing everything with compassion and wisdom. Just as perfume cannot mask a lack of hygiene, fame and nobility must stem from true talent and knowledge; virtue naturally brings its own fragrance. Everything in life is attained through kindness and cultivation, not through calculation or begging. Often, it is better to be misunderstood than to waste energy explaining. Understanding is the recognition of the heart, while perception is the resonance of the soul. True emotion is using one heart to warm another. Having someone who understands you is more precious than having someone who simply loves you. Some friends are not in our daily lives but are in our souls; some companionship is not by our side but stays in our hearts. Life should pursue the four dimensions: breadth, depth, warmth, and speed. Work should embody five qualities: initiative, action, liveliness, leadership, and inspiration. Keep one concept in mind: only by shortening the time to success can we extend the time to enjoy life. Memories are like a bowl of soup prepared by Meng Po; do those old scars ever pierce the heart? In matters, there is no need to seek merit—avoiding faults is merit enough. In conduct, there is no need to seek gratitude—avoiding resentment is virtue enough. When the mind is calm, there is peace; with peace comes stability; with stability comes wisdom; with wisdom comes enlightenment; and with enlightenment comes realization.
