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.
Interpretation
This quote emphasizes the importance of honesty, self-control, and generosity in one's life.
Confucius suggests that by adhering to three fundamental principles—speaking the truth, maintaining composure instead of succumbing to anger, and being generous even in small acts—we can elevate ourselves spiritually and morally. This guidance serves as a path towards a virtuous life, aligning ourselves with divine qualities.
In practice
This quote can be shared during a motivational speech to encourage honesty and emotional control.
Earnest 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.
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.
Never give a sword to a man who can't dance.
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.
Success depends upon previous preparation, and without such preparation there is sure to be failure.
An angry man is full of poison.
If we can't face our losses, we can't be present either fully to everything that is. When people have cut off or not made peace with some part of themselves, they miss out on other aspects of life.
He told me not to seek revenge, but to seek the Buddha,' said the fox spirit, sadly. 'Wise counsel,' said the fox of dreams. 'Vegeance can be a road that has no ending. You would be wise to avoid it. And...?' 'I shall seek the Buddha,' said the fox, with a toss of her head. 'But first I shall seek revenge.
The cut worm forgives the plow.
Vices are their own punishment
You will know your vocation by the joy that it brings you. You will know. You will know when it's right.
He has great tranquillity of heart who cares neither for the praises nor the fault-finding of men. He will easily be content and pacified, whose conscience is pure. You are not holier if you are praised, nor the more worthless if you are found fault with. What you are, that you are; neither by word can you be made greater than what you are in the sight of God.
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