Speak the truth, do not yield to anger; give, if thou art asked for little; by these three steps thou wilt go near the gods.
ConfuciusRead
At fifteen, my mind was bent on learning._x000D_ _x000D_ At thirty, I stood firm._x000D_ _x000D_ At forty, I had no doubts._x000D_ _x000D_ At fifty, I knew the decrees of Heaven._x000D_ _x000D_ At sixty, my ear was receptive to truth._x000D_ _x000D_ At seventy, I could follow my heart's desires without sin.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote reflects the evolution of understanding and wisdom as one ages.
Confucius uses this quote to illustrate the progression of personal growth and insight that comes with age. Each decade represents a deeper understanding of life, truth, and morality, culminating in the ability to live authentically and in harmony with one's desires by the age of seventy. The journey from focused learning to experiencing and following one's heart emphasizes the value of life's stages and the knowledge gained through them.
Themes
WisdomAgeGrowthTruthKnowledge
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about personal development during a milestone birthday.
More from Confucius
All quotes →Earnest in practicing the ordinary virtues, and careful in speaking about them, if, in his practice, he has anything defective, the superior man dares not but exert himself; and if, in his words, he has any excess, he dares not allow himself such license.
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When you see a good person, think of becoming like her/him. When you see someone not so good, reflect on your own weak points.
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Never give a sword to a man who can't dance.
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The superior man is distressed by the limitations of his ability; he is not distressed by the fact that men do not recognize the ability that he has.
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Success depends upon previous preparation, and without such preparation there is sure to be failure.
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