Life is a river—know its depths. Fishing for three years can leave you poor; playing with birds can waste a life. This is not about hobbies but about obsession. A long illness tests a child’s devotion; a rising family may breed arrogance. Such is the way of the world.
Ask for directions without courtesy, and you’ll walk miles more. Politeness opens doors. Nurture jade for three years, and it will nourish you for life—patience yields lasting rewards.
Two meals to skip: food served after the feast, wine left after the table clears. Two people to avoid: divorced spouses and friends who’ve turned away. Two things never to do: borrow from the poor or give money to the rich.
Do good without asking for reward. Seek not gold and jade, but worthy children. Contentment brings honor; knowing when to stop saves you shame. A calm mind writes well; deep knowledge brings peace.
Stones from other hills can polish jade. Never neglect small kindnesses or commit small wrongs. Fame invites envy; power courts danger. Half a life in worry, a dream between waking and sleep.
May you guard your heart like jade and walk with grace. Life is a game of chess—play without regret.