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.
Virtuous kings value goodness above power; noble scholars delight in their Dao regardless of rulers’ status. Nobles lacking sincere respect and full etiquette cannot regularly consult worthy scholars, let alone command them as ministers.