When Yilyao of Shinan met Lord Lu, he looked very tired.
- Why do you look so tired? - asked the Shinan teacher.
“I studied the path of previous kings and was preparing to continue the work of my ancestors,” answered Ruler Lu. “I honor spirits and show respect to worthy men.” I do everything myself and don’t have a moment of rest, but I still can’t get rid of my worries. That's why I look so tired.
“Your way of getting rid of worries, my lord, is no good,” said the Shinan teacher. — The fox with its lush fur and the leopard with its spotted skin hide in forests and mountain caves to have peace. They go out at night and rest during the day - they are so careful. Even when they have to endure hunger and thirst, they allow themselves only once to go out for prey or to drink water - they are so restrained. And if, even with their caution and restraint, they sometimes fail to avoid a trap or a net, is it really their fault? Their fur and skin are the source of their misfortune. Isn’t the kingdom of Lu the same skin for you? I would advise you, my lord, to peel off your skin, cleanse your heart, drive away desires and wander freely in the Deserted Expanse.
Translated from Russian · original on wisdomlib.ru