In making a sacrifice, it is important not to have an indecisive mind. Such a mind can inflict a great deal of shame on your spirit of self-sacrifice.
He who studies without appreciating the insights of the wise men of old is no more than a copyist. He who holds office but loves not the common people is no more than a robber in official attire.
Only a person of pure moral character can appreciate the fine nature of the ancient sages through the study of ancient works.
A man who pursues learning must collect his scattered thoughts and concentrate all his mental powers on his studies.
People who take coarse food and drink usually have morals as clean as ice and as pure as jade. Those, on the other hand, who set great store by fine garments and tasty fare tend to be servile flatterers and willing slaves.
A person who shuns power, wealth and luxury is clean. But a man who comes into contact with power, wealth and luxury and still remains unsullied is even cleaner.
Those who preserve their moral integrity suffer only fleeting loneliness. But eternal wretchedness awaits those who toady to the powerful.