Friday, August 15, 2008

Philosophical Musings - Part IV

The Roots of Wisdom

Another one of Hong Yingming’s poems from his book ‘The Roots of Wisdom’, translated into English by Tsai Chih Chung.

The Deception of Appearances

When I have rank
And people respect it
They are respecting
My tall cap and great sash

When I am destitute
And people despise me
They are despising
My cotton garb and straw sandals

If this is so
In their hearts
They do not respect me
So, why should I be happy?

If this is so
From the depths of their soul
They do not despise me
So, why should I be upset?

2 comments:

Anonymous

Through the clothings you wear, you can read the hearts of the people.

Avatar

Dear Marketing Deviant,

Yes, nothing reveals the heart of another than one's apparent stature in society, or lack of it. :)

Rgds

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