修己以敬。

原文英文

The ancients often said, "Half of the Analects can govern the world." I initially found this statement somewhat vague, but it was only after deeply studying the Analects that I truly grasped its essence. Many of the philosophies contained in this text appear simple, almost akin to common sense, yet they reveal profound truths through their simplicity.

During my vacation reading, I reviewed several passages from the Analects, but one particular section left a lasting impression on me.

Zilu, a student of Confucius, once asked his teacher how one could become a gentleman. Confucius replied: "Cultivate yourself with reverence." This means diligently refining oneself while maintaining an attitude of seriousness and respect.

Hearing this, Zilu was skeptical, feeling that becoming a gentleman was too simple to be achieved by just these four characters. He pressed further, asking: "Is that all?"

Confucius added a nuance: "Cultivate yourself to bring peace to others." Once you have perfected your own character, strive to bring happiness and peace to those around you.

Zilu was still not satisfied and asked again: "Is that all?"

Confucius elaborated further: "Cultivate yourself to bring peace to the people. Even Yao and Shun found it difficult to fully achieve this." This implies that one must not only refine their own character but also work towards ensuring the well-being and happiness of the common people. Even the sage-kings Yao and Shun struggled to perfect this aspect. If one can achieve this, is it not enough to be considered a true gentleman?

Upon reflecting on this dialogue, I was left with deep insights.