"The Discourses on Salt and Iron" is like the ancient version of "Rich Dad, Poor Dad", let's use straightforward and poignant language to describe these ancient teachings.
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In places with abundant resources, there is wealth: just like having a Walmart at your doorstep, it's hard not to be rich. Making money is not about working yourself to death, but about using your brain and finding a good place.
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Don't be too kind, your wallet will cry: if you want to get rich, sometimes you have to toughen up. Being too soft-hearted won't make money magically appear in your pocket.
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It's hard for small grass to grow under a big tree: just like in a forest, the small grass under a big tree will never grow into a big tree. In society, you also need to find your own space, don't let yourself be suffocated by pressure.
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Seeking comfort leads to danger right in front of you: those who only want to enjoy the present often can't see the pitfalls ahead. Short-sighted people only focus on immediate gains, but fail to see the big pitfalls in the distance.
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A box full of broken jade is not as good as a piece of real gold: reading many books enriches knowledge, but it doesn't mean you truly understand. Real wisdom is being able to apply knowledge effectively.
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Listen and observe more, don't isolate yourself: those with broad knowledge understand more; those with keen ears have more wisdom. Those who don't listen to others' advice will end up trapping themselves.
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Poverty is not scary, lack of wisdom is: being of low status doesn't mean you're stupid; being poor doesn't mean you lack morals. True value lies in your mind and soul.
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Overindulgent mothers raise disobedient children: mothers who spoil their children will end up nurturing ungrateful individuals. Sometimes, being tough is a form of love.
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Handle big matters with stability, small matters with diligence: when dealing with big matters, don't rush and get confused; when dealing with small matters, don't be lazy and neglect them.
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Clothing and food are the essentials: everything else is secondary, filling your stomach and wearing warm clothes are the basics of life.
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Smart people know how to adapt: the world changes, smart people adapt; circumstances change, wise people adjust their strategies.
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Stay firm in poverty, don't abandon your aspirations: poverty doesn't change your goals, humility doesn't shift your focus. That's what makes a great man.
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Be prepared to avoid trouble, lack of preparation leads to being controlled by others: being prepared allows you to control the situation; without preparation, you'll be led by the nose.
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In a big forest, there are all kinds of winds: wealthy families often use sweet words. Don't be deceived by these words, remember to see who is sincere and who is fake.
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Quitting halfway leads to nothing: don't give up halfway through a task; in learning, don't fish for three days and dry the net for two. Persistence leads to results.
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Patch small holes before they become big troubles: when problems arise, solve them promptly. The longer you delay, the bigger the problem becomes, and the harder it is to solve.
Although these ancient teachings are from a distant past, the wisdom within them is eternal.