Condensed into one sentence: The conduct of a gentleman is to cultivate oneself through tranquility and nurture virtue through frugality. Without detachment, one cannot clarify aspirations; without serenity, one cannot achieve far-reaching goals. Learning requires stillness, talent requires learning; without learning, one cannot broaden talent; without ambition, one cannot accomplish learning. Indulgence and laziness cannot inspire diligence; recklessness and impatience cannot cultivate character. As years pass and time flies, intentions fade with each day, eventually withering away, often disconnected from the world, sadly guarding a humble abode—what then can be regained?
Valuing fame and fortune prevents a tranquil mind; focusing on the external hinders the completion of learning. Maintain inner stillness, and everything else will gradually follow.
