Wang Zhiwen has a classic line in Tian Dao:
“I no longer argue with others, because I have come to realize that everyone can only view matters from the standpoint of their own understanding. When you have money, focus on getting things done well; when you lack money, focus on being a good person. Your kindness to others is like a piece of candy—once eaten, it is gone. Your unkindness, however, is like a scar that remains forever.”
Lu Xun once said: “A snake does not know it is poisonous, and a person does not know they are wrong, because everyone can only look at things from their own perspective.”
The joys and sorrows of adults are never the same. The same thing appears entirely different to different people. When positions differ, it is better to speak less. When levels of understanding differ, there is no need to explain. When cognitive frameworks differ, there is no need to insist.
As the saying goes: one cannot discuss ice with a summer insect, nor the ocean with a frog in a well. Those who stand on the mountaintop see a vast sea, while those halfway up the mountain see only desolation.
Everyone can only live within the radius of their own cognition and is willing only to believe what they themselves see. Therefore, never argue with others, let alone try to persuade them—otherwise you will only fall into their trap and waste your own life. Do not compete over who is higher or lower, do not debate who is right or wrong. Know when to stay silent; sometimes retreating is the way to advance.
Life is full of hardships and bitterness, yet no matter the circumstances, two things must be upheld: as a person, never abandon your conscience; in your actions, never cross the bottom line. Before doing anything, first be a decent person; before being a person, first establish virtue.
Those lacking virtue will ultimately end up alone. Do not ruin your character for the sake of gain; do not lose people’s hearts through scheming.