Happiness and troubles are like the two wings of life's flight, coexisting and inseparable. Joy and sorrow, happiness and pain, pleasure and sadness—they exist in contrast and progress through accumulation. Only those who have been tempered by hardship can truly appreciate happiness. They are like the wheels of a journey; where there is joy, there is also trouble. Neither is an ultimate goal, but they help us navigate towards our purpose. A simple mind, free from distractions, can see through illusions; a life with clear goals leads to a long and steady journey.
The walker envies the cyclist, and the cyclist envies the driver. Is this really the case? Not necessarily. Humans often possess the peculiar tendency to desire what they do not have while overlooking what they already possess. Once attained, that initial sense of pure joy often vanishes. The most precious thing is always what you have right now, rather than the illusions of what you wish to have.
When facing setbacks, one might cry out against an unfair fate, lamenting why talent does not lead to success. But is it truly unfair? Perhaps it is a lack of understanding regarding life's complexities and social wisdom. Instead of blaming fate, one should engage in self-reflection: were we too self-centered? Did we ignore the feelings of others? True maturity comes from finding the root of the problem through introspection and emerging with clarity.
Perhaps the greatest burden is a memory that is too vivid. If we could let go, every day could be a fresh beginning. Sometimes, instead of overthinking, it is better to live simply. Learning to be carefree allows for a more peaceful life. There are moments when we simply want solitude, without the need for comfort or conversation. Though past events fade and friends depart, the warmth of those memories remains in the heart.
Power is transitory. The vitality of power lies in competition and succession; there are no permanent winners on the stage of authority. No matter how influential one has been, the cycle of renewal is inevitable. Holding office is temporary, but being a person of character is a lifelong pursuit. Those who live with virtue leave a lasting legacy. While power fades, the value of using it for the common good transcends time.
