Speak the truth, do not yield to anger; give, if thou art asked for little; by these three steps thou wilt go near the gods.
ConfuciusRead
Coarse rice to eat, water to drink, my bended arm for a pillow - therein is happiness. Wealth and rank attained through immoral means are nothing but drifting clouds.
Interpretation
What this quote means
True happiness comes from simplicity and integrity, not from wealth or status.
In this quote, Confucius emphasizes that genuine happiness is found in the simplest of life's pleasures, such as humble food and a comfortable rest. He warns that attaining wealth and status through unethical means is fleeting and insubstantial, like clouds that drift away, suggesting that a virtuous and modest life leads to lasting contentment.
Themes
HappinessSimplicityWealthIntegrityContentment
In practice
Example use cases
During a motivational speech about finding joy in life, one might use this quote to illustrate the idea of appreciating the little things.
More from Confucius
All quotes βEarnest in practicing the ordinary virtues, and careful in speaking about them, if, in his practice, he has anything defective, the superior man dares not but exert himself; and if, in his words, he has any excess, he dares not allow himself such license.
ConfuciusRead
When you see a good person, think of becoming like her/him. When you see someone not so good, reflect on your own weak points.
ConfuciusRead
Never give a sword to a man who can't dance.
ConfuciusRead
The superior man is distressed by the limitations of his ability; he is not distressed by the fact that men do not recognize the ability that he has.
ConfuciusRead
Success depends upon previous preparation, and without such preparation there is sure to be failure.
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