In conducting oneself, one should understand the essence of Zen.
Laozi said: "He who knows others is wise; he who knows himself is enlightened. He who conquers others is powerful; he who conquers himself is strong." A person who can understand others and recognize them is clever, but one who can know and understand oneself is truly wise; a warrior who can defeat others is powerful, but one who can conquer oneself is a true strongman.
Life can sometimes be difficult, but one must still hold their head high. Escaping does not necessarily mean avoiding hardship, facing it is not always the hardest part, loneliness does not always mean unhappiness, what is gained may not last, and what is lost may not be gone forever. You may feel sad for certain reasons, but you can also find reasons to make yourself happy. The higher one climbs in life, the more composed the heart should become; only when the heart is steady can the path beneath one's feet be secure.
Life is like a river, winding and twisting, eventually flowing calmly into the sea amidst the afterglow, returning to tranquility. The small details in ordinary days often bring unexpected smiles; beauty often unfolds in gentle moments. Everyone aspires to an undying affection, but one must understand that emotions are like a house—if shortcuts are taken during construction, it becomes a perilous structure; it may develop issues due to poor construction or lack of maintenance, or even be ravaged by storms and earthquakes.
Pushkin said: "If life deceives you, do not be despondent, do not be angry! When things go wrong, restrain yourself for a while, and believe, the happy days will come." In fact, happiness is hidden in every little thing in our lives. By treating your inner self well, you can cause yourself pain, but you can also bring yourself joy, for you are the master of your own life.
A shell takes a lifetime to transform countless grains of sand into an irregular pearl, and the momentary beauty of a rainbow after rain requires the accumulation of vast amounts of water vapor. If these are viewed as setbacks, then it is these very setbacks that成就 the dazzling pearl and the beautiful rainbow.
Life is a blend of joy and sorrow, happiness and sadness; gains and losses are the essence of living. We often strive amidst confusion, failing to cherish what we gain or regret what we lose. Do not pray to fate, and do not rely too heavily on others; the confusions of life must be experienced personally.
Do not underestimate the advice of those who have failed; in the matter of what not to do, they are often the authorities.
Fish do not thrive in well water, and withered trees do not bloom.
Women often fear the erosion of time, while men require the refinement of age.
A peaceful mind leads to a beautiful life; a satisfied heart leads to happiness and prosperity.
