Since I am not yet able to become profound, I choose to be light and at ease instead. Those who always look sorrowful cannot hear the sound of flowers blooming; those who disguise themselves can never truly feel the excitement hidden within the chorus of frogs in nature.
An old man setting up fortune-telling stalls on a bridge can easily pose as a master with a fake beard and deceive those who consider themselves clever. This works because of the human instinct to seek good fortune and avoid misfortune. This innate nature cannot be completely erased simply by reading a few classical texts. If you can find a completely normal person who does not understand this instinct, I would be willing to offer a million as a reward.
Pain often arises from growing differences. People who once seemed compatible gradually discover they are moving in different directions. Their earlier harmony was merely a brief overlap at a crossroads in life.
Progress lies in the accumulation of virtue. Do not waste a single moment; take steady steps forward. Maintain continuous good intentions and do good deeds daily. Apply wisdom consistently and share joy generously. Only in this way can one create a meaningful life.
Wisdom has three levels: shrewdness, intelligence, and foresight. Shrewdness is like a mouse’s vision, focused on immediate gains. Intelligence is like a tiger’s vision, aware of nearby opportunities. Foresight is like an eagle’s vision, able to perceive distant trends and patterns. Only by integrating all three can one achieve great success.