Cao Jiao doubts he can become sage kings Yao and Shun due to his physique. Mencius argues sagehood relies on practicing filial piety rather than looks. The moral Way is an open road; one only fails to seek it, with teachers all around.
Mencius explains Shun wed secretly to preserve the essential marital bond, for his hostile parents would forbid it. Though aware of his brother’s murder plots, Shun sincerely trusted his feigned care; gentlemen fall for plausible pretense but not absurd falsehoods.
The Master said, “It is humanity that enlarges the Way, not the Way that enlarges humanity.”
Zigong asked, “Is there one word that can be practiced for a lifetime?” The Master said, “Perhaps it is ‘shu’ (reciprocity)! Do not impose on others what you yourself do not desire.”