A sharp-witted youth often courts trouble. If you have such a child, worry rather than rejoice. Keep them disciplined, let them study the classics, and teach them to be humble and kind. Keep them away from frivolous company. After a decade or so, their character will naturally mature. Otherwise, countless worries await. This advice is medicine for the young—heed it well, lest regret follow.
Lu You, a poet of ancient China, warned against cleverness. The more a child shows quick wit, the more they need to cultivate virtue and depth. Cleverness often leads to shortcuts and shallow efforts. Yet true achievement demands not just intelligence, but patience and perseverance. Without these, even the brightest may fall short. Let us walk with humility and steadiness—that is the path to wisdom.