12月7日

《菜根譚》選 ─ 體諒患難人
明 洪應明 ( 生卒年不詳 )

處富貴之地，要知貧賤之痛癢。
當少壯之時，須念衰老人辛酸。
居安樂之場，當體患難人景況。
處旁觀之地，要知局內之苦心。

──選自《菜根譚》

December 7

Selections from Tending the Roots of Wisdom - Be Sympathetic Towards Those Less Fortunate
Hong Yingming (Years unknown, Ming Dynasty)
English translation: John Balcom

When in a place of wealth and nobility,
Be aware of the circumstances of poverty and humbleness.

When in a time of youth and strength,
Be aware of the bitterness of old age and deterioration.

When in a state of joy and stability,
Be sympathetic towards those who are less fortunate.

When in the position of a bystander,
Be aware of the hardship experienced by those involved.

── from Cai Gen Tan (Tending the Roots of Wisdom)