•
The Master said, “Do not anticipate deceit, nor assume dishonesty in advance. Yet if one can discern it beforehand, such a person is indeed wise!”
•
Zi Zhang asked about clarity (or discernment). The Master said, “If insidious slander—like water slowly soaking in—and urgent, emotionally charged accusations—like a wound to the skin—cannot take hold with you, you may be called ming. If such slander and complaints find no traction in you, you may also be called farsighted.”
•
In Luo Guanzhong’s Romance of the Three Kingdoms, Chen Gong’s fate stands as one of the most poignant and instructive tragedies. A man of intelligence, loyalty, and moral integrity, Chen Gong ultimately met his end not through cowardice or incompetence, but due to a series of fateful misjudgments. His life offers profound lessons on…
•
When making friends with good men, you should not suddenly become close to them. Nor should you make your intentions widely known prematurely. That way you risk incurring the slander of evil men.
•
The ears can hear flattering sounds; the eyes can be dazzled by silver and gold. These effects are enemies encroaching from without, whereas carnal desires are robbers hidden within.