situational wisdom

  • The Analects – Chapter 10.18

    When the pheasants sensed a change in human expression, they immediately took flight; after circling in the air, they settled again. Confucius, observing this, remarked, “Ah, the female pheasant on the mountain ridge – how timely she is! How perfectly she understands the right moment!” Hearing this, Zilu bowed respectfully toward the bird. It…

  • Caigentan 50. The Square, The Round

    In an era of peace, one needs to be “square”, which means being strict and upright. In an era of turmoil, one needs to be “rounded”, which means being flexible and tactful.