It is inevitable that the man who seeks not fame and wealth should arouse the jealousy of a man who is avid for such things. It is inevitable that he who is circumspect in speech and conduct should provoke the dislike of reckless or audacious persons.
In such circumstances, a virtuous man should not compromise his principles or his conduct in the slightest, nor should he adopt a pugnacious attitude toward them.
澹泊之士，必为浓艳者所疑；检饰之人，多为放肆者所忌。君子处此，固不可少变其操履，亦不可露其锋芒！
Notes
Human conflicts often stem from clashing values — one’s steadfastness may appear as provocation to others. This is the world’s natural state.
When facing opposition, the noble person balances “holding fast to integrity” and “tactful adaptability”:
- Never abandon core principles, yet
- Avoid intensifying conflict through unnecessary display of superiority.
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