When many disappointments arrive, the sky of life seems filled with dark clouds, making us deeply feel the weight of existence. At such times, we must be clear and remind ourselves: life should follow its natural course.
Remember: not every river can flow into the sea; stagnant waters become dead lakes. Not every seed grows into a tree; the ungrown remain empty shells. Life is not always joyful, nor always painful; joy and sorrow coexist.
If I were the delicate, graceful woman gathering lotuses across the river, would you be the carefree, handsome scholar playing the flute? Bowing to handle the lotus seeds, so clear as water, eyes like autumn waters, that gentle lowering of the head, that shy demeanor—could it fill your heart with the subtle fragrance?
Encountering Jiangnan for the first time, the subtle fragrance fills sleeves, ten miles of lotus flowers and clear waters stretching into the horizon, light drizzle softly singing tales of romance. Gentle smoke tells the legend of grass and birds in spring. Who strolls under an oil-paper umbrella at the alley entrance, watching over the handsome youth in their heart? Who lingers on the misty cobblestones, waiting for a girl as delicate as lilac?
Having multiple choices often brings confusion; having no choice may lead to success. This shows that opportunities are important, but fully realizing one’s potential is even more crucial. A correct choice is not about calculating immediate gains or losses, but weighing long-term advantages and disadvantages. Even if temporary losses outweigh gains, if it benefits personal growth and development, it is the right choice. Those focused on short-term gains seldom achieve greatness.
