Do not lift yourself too high, for others may not look up to you but instead keep their distance; nor should you lower yourself too much, as others may not respect you but instead view you as being pretentious. No one is perfect, so there is no need to hide your flaws; only by being authentic and trustworthy can you win the recognition and closeness of others. Do not overthink how others perceive you; if you live through the eyes of others, you will eventually lose your way. As long as you remain peaceful and sincere, no one can reject you.
When a cup is full, even the finest tea must be drunk before it can be refilled. When the mind is full, one becomes arrogant, conceited, and self-righteous. We should often remind ourselves whether it is time to clear our "inventory." Only with an empty cup can we start anew. What Buddhism calls "letting go" and what economists call "forgetting sunk costs" are both contained within the wisdom of this empty cup.
While there are differences in age, status, and wealth, human dignity must remain equal. To look down upon or be indifferent to a child can cause hidden psychological damage; over time, this inequality can lead to severe consequences, which is a common flaw in many family educations.
Some people's words and actions do not warrant your attention, no matter how childish or annoying they may be. Some people can never truly become your enemy, as they overestimate their importance, believing that attacking or hurting you will make you hate them. Then there are those you shouldn't wait for—you know in your heart they are no longer worth the wait, yet you simply cannot let go.
Learn to distinguish between genuine affection and manipulation when encountering those who flatter you; do not let everyone into your heart. However, those who consistently care for you are truly sincere, and you should cherish them dearly.
