A missing pin
I have a disciple called Hui. He never disputes or disagrees with what I say. Thus he may seem stupid. But when I examine his behaviour, and when I hear him speaking to others, I understand my own teaching more fully.
Wise people are broad-minded, and not partisan; foolish people are partisan, and not broad-minded.
If I learn from good teachers, but do not reflect on what they say, then you will become confused. If you reflect deeply, but do not have good teachers to guide you, then you will be in danger.
This is what a king must do to command the respect of the people: he must promote people who are straight, and give them authority over those who are crooked. But if he promotes the crooked, and gives them authority over straight, he will be despised by the people.
A person may possess numerous virtues; but if honesty is not among them, that person should be avoided. A carriage may be sturdily built, comfortable and elegant; but if the pin is missing from a wheel, it will tip over.
Reading from Taoism and Confucianism
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