"Is it not a delight to have friends coming from afar?"
People from all walks of life are brothers. Humans should naturally trust, support, and encourage one another. However, as times evolve, the level of trust between individuals seems to be steadily declining.
As the ancients said: "One person less when wearing the dogwood." As the saying goes: "He who stays near vermilion becomes red; he who stays near ink becomes black."
When you achieve great success, you will undoubtedly find many so-called "friends" around you. Flatterers and opportunists seeking their own interests will flock to you. Such associations are not true friendships. As material life improves, have you ever noticed how many people truly treat you with sincerity, how many can be honest with you, and how many can treat you like a guest of honor? Times change and people shift; casual acquaintances are everywhere, and even former friends might become adversaries tomorrow.
I am not saying there are no true friends in this world. If someone offers a helping hand when you are destitute, provides guidance when you are at a dead end, or advises you to return to the right path when you stray, you should remember them. These are the people worth cherishing and engaging with sincerely.
Society is a complex circle. If you walk through it alone, it is like a lonely boat sailing on dry land, making every step difficult. Life is full of choices and disagreements. If you have made friends but are unsure whether they are worth deep connection, take half a year to observe them. Although the mist may be thick, there is always a dawn. Let the relentless needle of time pierce through their veils and reveal their true nature. Once you see through their disguises, do not hesitate to leave. Do not leave too many stains on the blank canvas of your life, lest you lose yourself.
In the future, you need not fear making friends, for you will possess enough courage and experience to find your true soulmates.
"Emerging from the mud unsullied, the lotus is washed clean and remains unalluring!"
May everyone find their kindred spirits in this mortal world.