Mencius distinguishes two sage types: Yao and Shun act virtuously by innate nature, while Tang and Wu regain virtue through self-cultivation. True morality is selfless; gentlemen follow principles and calmly accept fate.
Mencius distinguishes human nature and fate. Sensory desires are innate yet limited by fate, so gentlemen do not prioritize them. Moral virtues lie in innate nature despite external constraints, so people must persist in cultivating them rather than yielding to fate.
This Han Feizi passage stresses frugality of mind and senses. Overusing sight, hearing or intellect causes harm; conserving spirit preserves health and wisdom.
When a man’s mind reaches the point of perfect sincerity he can move Heaven and Earth. Snow can fall in summer, city walls can crumble, and adamantine rock can be carved.