#缠中说禅

What is the best state of life?

It is to seek deficiency rather than fullness; when the moon is full, it wanes, and when water is full, it overflows.

This may be the true meaning of Zeng Guofan writing the two characters 'Seek Deficiency' on the plaque.

Everything has its limits; once exceeded, it will be counterproductive. Therefore, blessings should not be fully enjoyed, leave three parts for descendants; benefits should not be fully taken, leave three parts for others; achievements should not be fully sought, leave three parts for partners.

One does not need to seek too much in life; not obtaining what one desires may not be a regret. Life is unpredictable, one must learn to be content. The contented, even in poverty, are not troubled; the discontented, even in wealth, are troubled.