No matter how earth-shaking one’s achievements, self-conceit will cancel them out. No matter how horrendous one’s sins, repentance will atone for them.
盖世功劳，当不得一个矜字；弥天罪过，当不过一个悔字。
Notes
Humility as Foundation:
However glorious one’s achievements, humility must endure. Pride stagnates growth and invites failure. True success lies not only in goals attained but in the humility cultivated along the way.
The Value of Self-Reflection:
When facing mistakes, courage to admit and amend them reflects accountability to oneself and respect for others. Through remorse and correction, lessons transform into future wisdom.
Growth Mindset:
Success and failure alike are opportunities for growth. Triumph should fuel further refinement, not vanity; defeat should forge resilience, not surrender.
Moral Cultivation:
This passage from Cai Gen Tan implies a deeper ethical teaching: Noble conduct manifests not merely in external accomplishments but in inner purity and integrity. Likewise, true redemption hinges on genuine repentance within the heart.
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