Perseverance
168. The book of Tuan Zhuan said: “Heaven and earth move eternally according to the law of nature. The sun and the moon, being encompassed by heaven, shine perpetually. The endless revolving of the four seasons enables all things to thrive under the sun. Men of virtues persistently advocate good morality and righteousness so as to lead their country toward lasting peace and prosperity. Observing what they have been doing, we realize that the same rules apply to the ceaseless thriving of all things under the sun.”
Scroll 1: Zhou Yi
169. The sages are known for their perseverance because without it, virtues could not be firmly established. Persisting in their moral and righteous cause, they were successful in teaching and transforming the world. Without perseverance, virtues cannot be established; without virtues, long-lasting stability cannot be found.
Scroll 50: Yuan Zi Zheng Shu
170. When a man of integrity cannot make others respect him, he will not give up his aspirations. If he cannot make others approve of him, he will not compromise his moral standards. If he cannot stop others from insulting him, he will not lose his noble personality. If he cannot prevent others from rejecting him, his integrity remains unchanged.
Scroll 50: Bao Pu Zi