Zeng Guofan's wisdom on friendship suggests "eight to befriend and nine to avoid": Befriend those who excel, possess great virtue, share your interests, are willing to endure losses, speak truthfully, have broad ambitions, help in times of adversity, and empathize with others. Avoid those who hold different values, flatter others, flip-flop on gratitude and resentment, are greedy, lack character, are unfilial, are foolish, kick others when they are down, or lack morality.
Face the world with a calm and composed heart. There is wisdom in not overthinking certain matters; it is not about being indifferent, but realizing that worrying brings no change. What must come will come, and what must leave will depart. Life has consequences and results, not "what-ifs." Regardless of the circumstances, maintain the ability to face everything with a smile, for there is magic in a smile.
In moments of silence, reflect on your own faults; in idle conversation, avoid speaking ill of others. Enduring hardship is the mark of a person of will, and being willing to accept losses is wisdom, not folly. Respecting a gentleman demonstrates virtue, while fearing a scoundrel does not mean one is incompetent. Stepping back leads to a wider horizon; yielding slightly brings peace of mind. To advance, one must consider retreating; before acting, one must consider letting go. Do not be overconfident in success, and always plan ahead in your endeavors. Knowing how to find peace is more precious than gold. Think deeply before acting, and practice patience when anger arises.
Emptiness does not mean having nothing; by reducing reliance on material things, one can discover the infinite treasures within. Many carry the heavy burdens of family and career and seek escape through travel. However, using travel to merely escape sorrow is not a permanent remedy. Perhaps, by simplifying life, the weight on one's heart will naturally be lightened.
Life is neither long nor short; it depends on how we perform our part in this drama. I believe that through hard work, even a supporting character will one day become the protagonist. In this competitive and realistic society, the law of the jungle is everywhere. If you do not strive and work hard to live, you will inevitably be left behind by society.
Friendship—how many people use this word to merely describe pleasant casual conversations and the tolerance of each other's weaknesses? Can that truly be called friendship?
