Making Correct Response
326. In all your ways be discreet but hold on to a great ambition; be thoughtful and thorough, upright and conscientious, resourceful, and focus on only a few things at a time.
Scroll 35: Wen Zi
327. People have drowned because they did not bother to find out a shallower path to wade across the water, and people who lost their way did not bother to find out the directions. This is like casting military weapons out only when the enemies are approaching, or digging a well when we need water to flush down something that is choking us. Even though efforts could commence immediately, it would nevertheless be too late to rectify the impending situation.
Scroll 33: Yan Zi
328. Those who journey across high terrains would not forget to bring along medical supplies. Those who love their newborn babies dare not neglect their nannies. Those who need to travel far through rugged terrains dare not neglect their drivers. Getting help from others enables us to achieve success. Without them, we would not succeed.
Scroll 37: Shen Zi
329. Virtuous people holding high positions in the government regarded benevolence as the pillars of their conduct. In times of difficulty and crisis they would emulate the meritorious conduct of the sages. This is why virtuous people who hold high positions would not fall from grace, nor would they fall from power in times of crisis.
Scroll 40: Xin Yu
330. A sage will endure humiliation for the sake of spreading justice in the future, and a temporary detour has to be taken so that another straightened road could be reached later. He may have taken a crooked path or a darkened route, but it is all for the sake of reviving the Great Way, so that bigger accomplishments can be achieved in the future. No one can walk out of a forest by using only a straightened path or rescue a drowning person without getting both his legs wet.
Scroll 41: Huai Nan Zi
331. A vast territory without a good government will place the country in danger. A powerful army that invades other countries will meet with its demise. When ferocious tigers fight among themselves, mole crickets and ants will emerge as the eventual winners. So an unaccomplished third party would triumph when two competitive parties are involved in bitter rivalries. Hence a brilliant ruler would observe the positive side of any action and weigh the risks and dangers involved. He will be well prepared for the future besides being alert of the present situation.
Scroll 42: Yan Tie Lun
332. When one puts on a bright and colorful silk garment, he should appreciate the hard work done by the female weavers. When one eats a grain of rice, he should appreciate the hard work of the farmers. Before deciding on the sentence of a prosecution case, be wary of whether the sentence given fits the crime. When awarding a promotion, beware if any worthy individuals have been left out. Every reward given to even a small act of kindness must inspire people to become better persons. Every punishment given to even a small crime must serve as a grave warning to the people not to commit wrongdoings.
Scroll 47: Zheng Yao Lun