Doctrine of the Mean (National Academy of Chinese Studies)

Moderation is not the law of mediocrity, but the way of a gentleman. The ancients took establishing one's mind, one's body, one's words, and one's merits as their lifelong pursuit to achieve the goal of cultivating one's character, managing one's family, governing the country, and bringing peace to the world. Be sincere, filial to relatives, loyal to the king and the people, broad-minded, accepting all rivers and tolerant of all things, not stubborn and flexible, and treating people and things appropriately. There is no limit to learning, read thousands of books and travel thousands of miles, apply what you have learned, constantly temper yourself, and let your body and mind reach a higher state. A gentleman must keep his word, and he will not hesitate to keep his promise even at the cost of personal interests and even his life. Actions must be resolute, take everything seriously, make the greatest efforts, and obtain the most ideal results. Maybe we can't become sages by being moderate, but we can be good people by being moderate.