The Right Path

Accepting that we will be in problematic situations and will have varied difficulties during our lifetime is the first step to being able to overcoming our troubles. Then acting based on what you believe in, makes you loyal and hardworking towards your decisions. “Of course the gentleman encounters hardship. The difference is that the petty man, encountering hardship, is overwhelmed by it.” (Pg. 44 15.2) Something interesting about this maxim is that it accepts human feelings as part of the process to finding a solution to problems, instead of just denying them. Encouraging trust in one’s own god-like abilities to solve with intelligent ethical actions one’s problems. Confucius introduces the idea that it isn’t how we are affected by an event but how we are able to overcome the barriers of life.

Being able to learn from oneself and others’ mistakes makes us great listeners and more aware of the true reality of our environment. Through conscious choices we are able to take knowledge and apply it in our day to day lives. “To make a mistake and yet to not change your ways - this is what is called truly making a mistake.” (Pg. 45 15.30) In a way if we aren’t using this learned information in our lives the most important part of the process is lost and we will make our mistake a habit. Doing right even if we know we won’t win is part of being ethical and moral. All the men of the Titanic chose to leave the lifeboats for the women and children. The men were all physically stronger than the women and children, as was the male captain and the male musicians, but they all chose to take the higher road and protect the weaker passengers. They all drowned with the ship. Those amazing actions are what really differentiate us from the animal kingdom, were the fittest and strongest will always be the survivor.

If we are able to stand up each time for what we believe is right by not only word but action, we will enhance our beliefs and become an example for all because as applying the knowledge learned from our mistakes, we are applying our beliefs for a greater life and so making better decisions through the course of our lives. This is the only way to truly teach and leave a viable legacy, through our character based on our action during distress.
“The gentleman takes office in order to do what is right, even though he knows that the Way will not be realized.” (Pg. 53 18.7) Having the opportunity and freedom to stand up for what we believe in should be something we should cherish and always protect for ourselves and for all human beings. As long as my rights/beliefs don’t infringe on others lives; because after all, why have beliefs if they aren’t worth fighting for?