“Never put down a book” is not about becoming a scholar, but about opening the mind. During the Three Kingdoms period, Lü Meng, a general of Wu, often claimed he had no time to study due to military affairs. Sun Quan advised him, “Are you busier than I am?” He cited Emperor Guangwu of Han, who always held a book even amid battles, and Cao Cao, who loved learning even in old age. Reading is not about quantity, but about gaining insight.
Lü Meng asked, “Where should I begin?” Sun Quan smiled and said, “Start with *Sun Tzu’s Art of War* and *Six Secret Teachings*, then move on to *Zuo’s Commentary* and *Records of the Grand Historian*. They will serve you well in command.” Time is never absent—only unwillingness to seize it. Inspired, Lü Meng studied diligently and later became a wise and courageous commander, achieving great victories.
Life is no different. Busyness is no excuse. Wisdom grows not from vast knowledge, but from small, persistent steps. A book in hand keeps the mind from barrenness.