The ancient Chinese I Ching is a manual for life. It often cites the difference between a superior person and an inferior one. Wi Wei, author of a fine commentary on sections of the I Ching, writes this in his book I Ching Life: Becoming Your Authentic Self:
"Just as water washes everything clean, the superior person pardons mistakes and forgives even intentional violations. In that way, he insures the upward spiral of his prosperity. The inferior person cannot resist the opportunity to chastise another and, in so doing, incurs resentment, destroys unanimity and crushes enthusiasm, thereby destroying his own chances for success. . . . Simplicity is the hallmark of the superior person, while ostentation is the hallmark of the inferior person. If you are following the path of the superior person, you understand that you are the equal of any person on earth. There is not need, therefore, to present false appearances."
"Just as water washes everything clean, the superior person pardons mistakes and forgives even intentional violations. In that way, he insures the upward spiral of his prosperity. The inferior person cannot resist the opportunity to chastise another and, in so doing, incurs resentment, destroys unanimity and crushes enthusiasm, thereby destroying his own chances for success. . . . Simplicity is the hallmark of the superior person, while ostentation is the hallmark of the inferior person. If you are following the path of the superior person, you understand that you are the equal of any person on earth. There is not need, therefore, to present false appearances."
RSS Feed