Wisdom, Editor's Pick

The Strategy of the ‘Golden Cicada Shedding Its Shell’

The “golden cicada shedding its shell” refers to its growth process, which sheds or molts its outer shell. It can be used metaphorically to describe how people can cleverly escape a situation by using deception. In times of crisis, employing the “golden cicada shedding its shell” strategy can often turn a dangerous situation into a ...

Tatiana Denning

cicada-molting

The Transformative Power of Living Books

Some parents say: “My kid is not a big reader,” or “I can’t get them to read.” But have you ever thought that the problem may be the books you’re giving them or the ones you read yourself? Some books are not engaging to readers; they don’t speak to you. Only living books talk to ...

Nathan Machoka

A child reading a living book.

Opening Pandora’s Box: Lessons on Curiosity, Consequence, and Hope

You’ve probably heard of the idiom “to open a Pandora’s box.” It means doing something that brings unforeseen consequences or causes many problems that didn’t exist before. According to Greek mythology, Pandora was the first woman created by the Greek gods to punish humans. But why would the gods want to punish humanity?  Why was ...

Nathan Machoka

Pandora's box.

Understanding Ancient Wisdom: Predetermined Wealth in Your Destiny

Ancient wisdom states: “What is destined to come will come, and what is not cannot be forced.” The amount of wealth a person is destined to have is predetermined. Only through earnest effort and the accumulation of virtue can one’s destined wealth increase. Accumulating goodness for wealth Often, personal calculations are insignificant in the face ...

Mikel Davis

Stacks of coins getting progressively higher are lined up with an old-fashioned key.

The Mysterious Thief and the Terrified Magistrate: A Tale from the Qing Dynasty

In the era of Emperor Qianlong during the Qing Dynasty, a riveting tale of theft, intrigue, and a lesson in humility unfolded in the bustling town of Zhenjiang. This story captures the essence of the period’s societal norms and delivers a powerful message that resonates through time. Let’s delve into this historical anecdote that serves ...

Max Lu

A judge's gavel and block.

Navigating Life With Grace: The Path to Avoiding Misfortune

Cultivating a noble character is the most esteemed quality you can possess. But what constitutes such character? The ancient Chinese text on life, Caigen Tan, offers a clear perspective: “Not faulting minor mistakes of others, not exposing their secrets, and not dwelling on their past wrongs, these three can prevent harm and nurture one’s virtue.” ...

Mikel Davis

Antique compass sitting on an antique map of the world.

Embracing Harmony and Tolerance: Wisdom From Ancient China

Tolerance, patience, generosity, and kindness are easily spoken of, but they are challenging to embody, especially in today’s fast-paced world. In interpersonal dealings, the ability to show tolerance is not just admirable, but is also instrumental in resolving conflicts. Stories from ancient China, steeped in traditional culture, offer insightful examples of how these virtues were ...

Mikel Davis

Huashan mountain in China.