Ancient wisdom flows like a gentle stream, offering timeless guidance for modern life. Heaven moves with strength; a noble person strives unceasingly. Earth supports with depth; a virtuous heart carries all beings.
Know yourself and others. A thousand-mile journey begins with a single step. Fortune and misfortune intertwine; in times of peace, prepare for danger. Learning reveals ignorance; teaching uncovers confusion. Jade uncut cannot become a gem; a person unlearned cannot know the Way.
Seek knowledge widely, question carefully, think deeply, discern clearly, and act earnestly. When seeing the wise, aspire to be like them; when seeing the unwise, examine yourself. The noble are open-hearted; the petty are always anxious.
In hardship, true character emerges. What you do not wish for yourself, do not impose on others. Harmony without uniformity is the way of the wise. Time flows like a river, never stopping. The past cannot be changed, but the future is yet to be shaped.
Nurture your spirit through stillness, cultivate virtue through simplicity. A tranquil mind reveals true aspirations; inner peace leads to distant horizons. Let ancient wisdom be your mirror, and the present moment your vessel, as you navigate the river of life with grace and insight.