“Those who are wise find joy in water, those who are benevolent find joy in mountains”
— Xunzi
Simplified Meaning:
People who are smart and flexible enjoy being around water because water is always changing and adapting to its surroundings. Just like water flows around rocks and obstacles, wise people can adjust to different situations and find happiness in that. On the other hand, people who are kind and caring find happiness in mountains. Mountains are strong, steady, and don't change. They stand tall and provide stability, just like kind people who offer support and consistency to others. Imagine a wise person as someone who, when faced with a problem, can think of different solutions and stay calm, similar to how water flows calmly around a rock. A benevolent person, like a mountain, is always there to help and support their friends and family when they need it. By understanding this, you can learn that flexibility and adapting to change can bring you joy, as well as being dependable and supportive to others. Both types of people find their own way to be happy by being true to their nature.