The nobler sort of man in his progress through the world has neither narrow predilections nor obstinate antipathies. What he follows is the line of duty.
The nobler sort of man is proficient in the knowledge of his duty; the inferior man is proficient only in money-making.
In serving his father and mother, a son may use gentle remonstrance; if he sees that they pay no heed, he should not desist, but merely increase in deference; if his pains are thrown away, he must show no resentment.
While one's parents are alive, one should not travel to a distance; if one must travel, it should be in a fixed direction.[1]
The age of one's parents should always be kept mind—on the one hand, as a subject for rejoicing; on the other, as a cause for alarm.
The wise man will be slow to speak but quick to act.
Tzǔ Chang asked, saying: The Prime Minister Tzǔ Wen[2] held office three times, but showed no joy; he lost it three times, but testified no concern. When he ceased to be Prime Minister, he was careful to explain the political situation to his successor. What is your opinion of him?—
