In the 18th century, Britain transported prisoners to Australia for development. The transport was contracted to private entities, and the government paid based on the number of people boarding the ships. To maximize profits, shipowners overloaded the vessels, leading to extremely high mortality rates among prisoners. The government eventually changed the policy: instead of paying per person boarding, they paid per person disembarking. Soon, the death rate plummeted to 1%. As Hayek said, Bad institutions make good people do evil, while good institutions can turn bad people into good ones.
Every year when Gaokao scores are released, some weep while others cheer; some suffer while others flourish. Those in sorrow feel as if they have fallen into hell, while those in joy believe they have reached heaven. But only those who have attended university know that any college offers opportunities for hard work, and even the most prestigious ones are not immune to decadence. There is no need to lament; who will command the future in four years remains to be seen. Sometimes, unexpected turns in life lead to even greater growth.
Life need not be overly calculated; learn to let go and move on. Regardless of yesterday, today, or tomorrow, if one can find clarity, it is a beautiful day. Whether facing troubles or joys, gains or losses, remember that your life is unfolding exactly as it should.
The universe undergoes massive expansion and contraction, without a specific cause or a predetermined goal. It simply exists and operates, much like a heart beating continuously. What it truly is remains an eternal mystery; we only know the result is a paradise on earth, much like a blooming wild rose.
One may hurry through life, but one must not be rushed. To "hurry" is to seek the scenery, traveling thousands of miles through mountains and rivers; to be "rushed" is to be caught in a chaotic storm. An elegant life is nurtured by a calm heart, a peaceful mindset, and a simple way of living, yielding composure and tranquility. Some things require long periods of waiting, and some goals require sincere patience; none of it can be rushed.
The active are healthy, the thinkers are wise, the helpers are joyful, the readers are learned, the travelers are delighted, and the seekers are successful. Study earnestly, think quietly, act reliably, work diligently, live simply, make friends sincerely, walk leisurely, and live with integrity.
