Living Wisely: A Guide to Wisdom and Virtue

To live wisely, one must see oneself objectively, not cling to anything, and practice meditation and mental management for a joyful and healthy life.

### "Live Wisely, Not Just Right: Insights from Baltasar Gracián's 'The Art of Worldly Wisdom'"
* 📚 Baltasar Gracián, a 17th-century Spanish philosopher and Jesuit priest, authored "The Art of Worldly Wisdom," a book that has influenced notable figures like **Nietzsche and Churchill**.
* 🧠 Gracián's teachings emphasize the importance of **living wisely** rather than merely being good, as wisdom involves both **internal goodness** and **external clarity**.
* 🔍 The first step towards wisdom is self-reflection, which requires temporarily **distancing oneself from their current self** to see their **true nature beyond self-deception**.
* 🌌 The second method is to **avoid clinging to anything**, as wisdom involves **transcending thoughts** and not becoming **bound by them**.
* 🧘 The third method is **meditation and mind management**, which Gracián believes are **essential for living a joyful, healthy, and wise life**.
* 🌟 The speaker praises the book's **title and translation quality**, highlighting the importance of **translating philosophical works accurately**.
* 💬 The speaker shares personal reflections on the book's teachings, emphasizing the **need to live wisely in today's complex world**.
* 🏞 The speaker anticipates a **revival of interest in meditation and mind management**, promoting the benefits of these practices for **personal growth and well-being**.

Hello, this is Book Republic. Today, I will introduce a book titled Do Not Live Right, Live Wisely Enough to Be Afraid. The author is Baltasar Gracián, a 17th-century Spanish philosopher and Jesuit priest who, after being ordained at the age of 25, gained insight and rich intellect through his sharp observations of the world and humanity. In 1642, he presented the book The Art of Worldly Wisdom, and five years later, he released a revised edition that expanded the content more deeply and broadly, titled The Wisdom to Win People. This book, later compared to Machiavelli's The Prince, is considered a masterpiece and is referred to as Gracián's representative work. It has had a profound impact on notable figures in modern history, including Schopenhauer, Nietzsche, and Churchill, who regarded it as a guide for life. Notably, the German philosopher Schopenhauer learned Spanish to translate it into German. This is a book that one should carry and read throughout their life.

There are traces of Balthasar's influence throughout his philosophy, to the extent that he has been praised as a companion in life. Nietzsche also stated that there is no sharper and clearer life than this, as he took Balthasar's teachings as a lifelong guide. When speaking about oneself, it can easily turn into either bragging or self-deprecation; thus, it is better not to share personal stories easily. Additionally, one should avoid bringing up people who are not present, as this can lead to either praise or criticism. It is important to ensure that those who help me perceive that they are gaining something as well. Giving the impression that what is good for me is also good for others is crucial. By making it ambiguous how much each party benefits, one can evoke a sense of satisfaction in the other person. Sometimes, showing weaknesses can actually help to gain an advantage in a relationship. Always maintain discernment, but be slightly lacking in intelligence or moral aspects.

It's better to be visible in order to soothe the jealousy of others and prevent their harm from coming to me. Become a necessary presence rather than just a grateful one. It is essential for everyone to have someone who can help them in important moments, as gratitude is a fleeting emotion that quickly fades once that moment passes. Make sure that when someone needs something, they think of you. Being a needed person rather than just a grateful one increases your value. Compliments have wings and can soar to unexpected places. Therefore, use cunning and shrewd behavior only when absolutely necessary. Do not love too much, nor hate too much; today's friend could become tomorrow's greatest enemy. Even if a friend turns into a betrayer, do not attack them. Keep a heart open to reconciliation with enemies. The wiser a person is, the more they understand how long and difficult life can be without the support of others. Help as many people as you can.

Accept that the person who protects you does not worry about flaws. First, make an effort to gain the favor of others. You should appear to be a better being than what you possess. People are generally uninterested in things they cannot understand. In contrast, they show respect for what is incomprehensible or difficult to obtain. Keep your distance from those with a bad reputation. If you fail to recognize foolish people, you are destined to become one of them. Worse yet is the inability to sever ties with someone you know to be foolish. It is impossible for my reputation to improve while I am next to someone with a bad reputation. Do not give too much; that person may become ungrateful. If gratitude becomes a heavy burden, friends may leave or turn into enemies, as a person who has been wronged cannot endure the sight of the one who lent them something. Just as an ugly face ceases to bother you when seen daily, you will gradually become accustomed to the flaws of your colleagues.

Accept that it is possible to change your perspective. If you do, it will become easier to maintain relationships with people you dislike. If you believe it is possible, over time, even the most bothersome individuals will not affect you as much. No one else can fix your bad personality; you must adjust and exercise self-control. Always listen to your inner voice and be careful not to say anything wrong. Connections are more important than knowledge. Associate with those who have something to offer or from whom you can learn. The more one understands the ways of the world, the more they will stay close to noble individuals and avoid those who act pretentiously. The people you associate with reflect who you are. If you are engaging with respected and admirable individuals, their aura will make you shine as well. Let’s take those who have something to teach us as examples, and you should associate with people who have qualities opposite to your flaws. If you tend to drink a lot, spend time with those who drink in moderation.

If you want to become closer and your personality is fiery, then keep calm people close to you. All things in the universe are composed of contrasts. By balancing both extremes, you can maintain moderation without excess or deficiency. A person who has nothing to achieve has no trust to uphold. Let’s act only with those we can trust. Most people correct their behavior to gain trust. Those who cannot be trusted lack even the virtue of self-management. A person without knowledge will inevitably fail. One should willingly learn from many people and continue to learn. When a person acts upon all the words of wise individuals they have learned, through that effort, they too become wise. Keep intelligent people close to you. If you get angry over trivial matters, nothing will go well. This can make your personality even more stubborn, worsening the situation. No matter what happens, avoid such people. It is better to be around someone who is light-hearted than someone who is stubborn.

Even if the person you serve is excellent, you should not simply do as you are told. Just because someone is in a high position does not mean you should overlook their shortcomings. You should also not imitate their flaws. People may overlook the foolishness of those in high positions, but if someone imitates that foolishness, they are easily ridiculed. There are always people who can hurt your feelings; it is not easy to avoid such individuals. These people point out the mistakes of others while being blind to their own faults, living with their ears tightly shut. The worst type among them is the one who does not sincerely do anything themselves but enjoys belittling and criticizing the efforts of others. Friends are not for mere enjoyment; they are to provide support. Let us choose friends who are harmonious, kind, and sincere. When you have true friends, your joy is multiplied in happy times, and your sorrow is lessened in sad times. A friend is a refreshing presence for the soul.

The only existence that brings the wind and saves us from adversity is one that possesses the ability to distinguish between lucky and unlucky people. Cultivate this ability. Stay away from those who are poor, as their indiscriminate mindset can be contagious. If you meet a wise and thoughtful person, be sure to stay close to them; good fortune is undoubtedly nearby. Just as one studies a book, it is necessary to observe people slowly. Use appearances to your advantage; looks can easily become an opportunity to gain others' goodwill. Just like skills, appearances can be honed and polished. Attract people's attention and make them your allies. There is no one so great that you should fear them. Always think of everyone as inherently noble; otherwise, you will feel intimidated. Everyone is the same as human beings, each with their own flaws and capable of making excuses. Once you break free from vague fears,

When dealing with others, one can respond boldly without losing oneself. Be cautious when interacting with sensitive individuals; they are like eyes that get hurt with just a slight touch. Be careful not to disturb or hurt their feelings. Such people usually interpret situations from a self-centered perspective and will do anything for their own satisfaction, which can put themselves at risk. Everyone has their own circumstances. People justify their beliefs in various ways, believing they are right. When criticizing another's viewpoint, be careful and refrain from immediate rebuttal. Take a moment to consider the other person's perspective. Hatred diminishes oneself. Let's stop the actions of disliking others; such behavior only undermines one's true worth. A sympathetic attitude towards great individuals leads to personal growth, while hatred tarnishes one's reputation. True affection is mostly...

It completely depends on effort. Let's act for others; then someone will do a good deed for you as well. By loving yourself, you receive love from others. You don't need to show the same face to everyone. Think about which part of yourself to reveal to whom in what situation. There's no need to show your full worth all at once. Never reveal your true colors completely; instead, surprise those around you when the opportunity arises. It's better to be seen as an interesting person with unique aspects. Start with difficult tasks first; always tackle important matters before dealing with the rest. Take your time but don't rush. When teaching someone, don't teach them everything at once. If you reveal all your knowledge, you may lose respect or admiration. Don't claim you can do anything; you will only be used and exploited, running around here and there, which is not helpful to anyone.

Existence is indeed difficult, but trying to be helpful to everyone is also a misguided attitude. Excel in one field and refrain from showcasing your talents in other areas; a flame that shines too brightly will extinguish quickly. A person who knows everything may sometimes appear ignorant, understanding that true wisdom lies in this. It doesn't mean to close your ears to the ways of the world; rather, it suggests that one should simply appear this way. It is wise to stand in the shoes of the other and speak in a way that they understand. Sometimes, it is necessary to be thick-skinned. Do more than what is expected of you. Regardless of your position, whether high or low, it is essential to strive to accomplish more than just your assigned role. A single cloud can overshadow a great sun. Everyone struggles with their weaknesses; the ability to turn weaknesses into strengths is very important. Look at Julius Caesar; by wearing a laurel wreath, he was able to effectively cover his ordinary appearance. Actively negotiate.

A knowledgeable person who cannot negotiate properly in the world of bargaining is treated like a fool. You must at least develop a sense of negotiation that prevents you from being deceived or ridiculed. Those who later nitpick tools in irreversible situations are generally people who do not do their jobs well. Use the best tools possible to achieve your goals. This also applies when selecting subordinates or assistants. The criticism or praise for their work will also reflect back on you. If you want the best results, choose those who will help you carefully. Predictable problems are no longer issues. It is better to spend a night contemplating before starting work than to worry later and lose sleep over it. Always having a good attitude of predicting and preparing is important. Reflect and always look ahead. These two will grant you freedom in life. Before starting any task, think about how it will unfold.

Many people wander around aimlessly, unable to get to the core of the matter. If you only speak without addressing the main point, it is just a waste of time. Set an important goal and focus your attention on it. Protect your superior's reputation; openly defeating your boss is truly foolish and can lead to irreversible consequences. Just as treasures are hidden, you should also conceal your strengths. Pointing out others' flaws is essentially a critique of yourself. Do not let others know that you remember their bad behavior; people will distance themselves from you and see you as unkind. Whether knowingly or unknowingly, no one is without sin. Those with flaws should refrain from blaming others. Maintaining distance can help hide shortcomings, but in close relationships, everything will be revealed. Being in the company of superiors is risky, and frequent interactions with subordinates are also undesirable.

It is better to stick to what is appropriate. Avoid appearing too easy to deal with; even if I treat others kindly, they often do not recognize my kindness and take it for granted. Cold-hearted people do not last long. Those who are arrogant are not wise. To fulfill one's duties, one should not act superior. If you want to gain people's support, above all, you must not show your face or arrogance. Proud individuals do not last long. There is no such thing as a coincidence. Instead of relying on fate, let us be the ones who carve our own destiny. Having wisdom is the greatest fortune, while lacking wisdom is the greatest misfortune. Even if you believe your views are correct, do not be overly stubborn. Others who become weary of your stubbornness will ultimately evaluate you negatively. A person is more attractive when they possess diverse talents. Cultivate your talents and hone your senses. Know when to leave and step back with confidence.

Posture is essential. Step back with confidence and don't act too foolishly. A truly discerning person always maintains a consistent attitude; if their attitude changes, there must be a good reason behind it. Someone whose attitude changes daily lacks consistency in their opinions, so keep your distance. Their luck will shift as quickly as the wind. Rather than fighting, leave on your own accord. You should retreat while the flowers are still blooming. You shouldn't be perceived as dead by others while you are alive. A person should retire while they are winning in a race, and a beauty should vanish from the public eye before her looks fade. Leave familiar places. When you rise to a high position, people from your hometown will start to envy your talents, just like a new mother with 100,000 won. Therefore, to achieve greater accomplishments, it is better to change your surroundings. People cherish those who come from different places, unlike the rural person who has not yet moved on from their past self.

One should not expect respect from those they know. Common sense may be less valuable than skill, but in the end, it will be recognized by wise individuals. Courage is an essential element of the heart, just as physical strength is necessary for the body. No matter how smart one is, without courage, they will end their lives without achieving what they truly want. One must not be broken; one should not overly cling to trivial matters. It is not necessary to know everything in detail. For less important tasks, it is acceptable to let them be. A wise person often pretends not to see almost everything. Do not waste your energy on trivial things; it will only affect your mood. First, understand the overall situation. When in doubt about what to choose, always opt for the safer option. If you take risks in matters you do not fully understand, you may find danger waiting at the end. The smoother things are going, the more one should prepare for difficult situations. Prepare for winter during the summer.

It is good to stock up on forms. Instead of envying others, focus on yourself. Those who constantly envy others always have their eyes on them. Rather, confront yourself. One way to elevate respect and fame is to sometimes hide your presence. Even the greatest natural talent can lose its charm when scrutinized repeatedly. When something is not visible, longing tends to grow. Holding a blade can lead to injury, but holding its sheath keeps you safe. You must know how to handle your enemies. If you act with your enemies in mind, you can avoid actions that could lead to criticism and prevent slander in advance. Patience accomplishes more than passion. A handful of patience is worth more than a horse's brain. To achieve good results in anything, time and effort are essential. Make the most of your luck and cut off what is unnecessary. Understanding luck is more important than predicting the weather because luck can be managed, but the weather cannot be changed.

If you are always careful, you can change your luck. Brave and proactive people attract good fortune, while those who live lazily find that luck eludes them. When you feel that luck is not on your side, focus on your path and avoid worse situations. Always think that someone is watching you; even when you are alone, consider that people in the world are observing you and that everything can be revealed. If you have borrowed something from a friend, do not return it with trivial matters; keep the bonds of help for urgent moments. It is very important to know that there is someone you can rely on someday. Be wary of becoming emotional; exercise caution. You must not be swept away by passion in any situation. Truly great people maintain their balance even when their emotions are strongly shaken. A restrained mind makes a person strong. No matter what happens, even in the worst disasters or terrible situations...

You must not lose your composure even when situations unfold. Foolish actions can always be stopped, and it is better to give up quickly. As wisdom accumulates, it becomes increasingly difficult to tolerate ignorance. However, generosity is an important virtue. One must strive to endure even the most foolish actions. If you endure, peace and joy will ultimately come. Those who cannot tolerate the flaws of others often cannot endure themselves. Boasting about wealth only creates enemies. Wealth is just wealth. The more you display luxurious items and harbor vanity, the more conflicts arise even among once-truthful friends. There is no such thing as complete happiness or complete misery. In heaven, everything is joy, and in hell, everything is suffering. In this world, which lies between heaven and hell, joy and suffering coexist. Therefore, you must maintain your composure. If, in your youth, you only seek comfort, life...

In the latter part, it becomes miserable. Suffering is like preparation for happiness. Beware of extremes; whether good or bad, extremes are not beneficial. Once you go beyond a certain point, it turns into evil. You should not milk a cow until the blood mixes with the milk. No matter how brilliant something is, over time it will ultimately lose its luster. In all aspects—mental strength, intelligence, and so on—sometimes reassess yourself anew. Let's challenge ourselves with new things; wisdom often triumphs over strength. If you cannot achieve your goals through force, use your intellect. There are many instances where the wise person succeeds better than the brave one. If you ultimately cannot achieve your goals, just pretend that you did not want them from the beginning. Knowing how to let go is also part of wisdom. Act when the situation allows; time and opportunity do not wait. Do not set overly strict rules; the rules you create can bind you. The wise adapt to circumstances.

Flexibly adapting, one changes the direction of actions by following the star of wisdom. Even a murky pond will become clear if left undisturbed. In cases where chaos persists, it may be best to simply let things be until they naturally return to their original state. If there is a willingness to correct flaws at the cost of one's life, one can become a greater person. Innate temperament can also be changed if one pays attention to it. There is nothing that cannot be achieved with effort. Choose hunger over fullness. The sweeter something is, the more one should savor it until the very last drop. The pinnacle of foolishness is calling others foolish while remaining unaware of one's own ignorance. A true sage is one who recognizes their own ignorance. Holding discontent towards oneself is a bitter affair, but the attitude of believing that only one is right is even more foolish. If one is satisfied with oneself, it is evidence of ignorance. One should not be content with being poor and ordinary.

It is not good to feel a bit uncomfortable in your current position. Do not force your thoughts on others. Regardless of any evaluations or judgments you make, do not impose your opinions on those around you. A cautious attitude refers to the ability to check for any issues and reconsider decisions. If you feel even slightly dissatisfied with your own judgment, you should reevaluate it. When you are asked for something, you should also think carefully before making a decision; as a result, the person who asked will be much more grateful. When you need to decline a request, it is wise to delay your judgment a bit to minimize hurt. Some enjoy, while others despair; even in the same situation, some may fall into despair, while others may enjoy the circumstances and feel joy. The purpose of life is to find the path you need to walk and strive to become as perfect a person as possible. Some may wish for you to lose your rationality.

To protect oneself, self-restraint is essential. Do not risk your life to help others. Those who try to burden others with their troubles when times are tough will not look back once the situation improves. When rescuing someone from drowning, you must remain calm; only then can you save them without putting your own life in danger. There are no worries that cannot be comforted. Even in the worst situations, there is always a path to happiness. Be attentive to your heart; you must always look within. See the world with an open heart. Knowledge makes everything possible, but knowledge without courage is powerless. If you have courage, knowledge will become your strength. Fate tests you at unexpected moments. Fate presents its strictest tests when we are careless. Therefore, do not be negligent for even a single day. If you keep postponing, you will achieve nothing.

You may think you cannot achieve something, but if you work hard with confidence, you can accomplish what you once thought was impossible. Do not waste time just thinking; if your goal is valuable, you must pursue it to the end and ensure you achieve it. You should not be satisfied with merely setting a goal. Being dependent is akin to incurring debt. Do not be bound by anything or anyone. Many people may try to rely on you, but you must not depend on anyone else. Those who know you well can become your greatest adversaries. When it is time to part ways with friends, try to leave a good impression and let the relationship fade naturally. It is better to withdraw slowly and calmly. No matter how long the night is, the sun will rise. Be patient and wait. Do not do too much; focus on what is important. Books should not be evaluated by their quantity; they are meant to train the mind, not to be tools for building physical strength through weight. Quality matters.

It is important that a person's essence cannot be measured by weight. Consciously train your memory; remember only the joyful and comforting things, and focus your awareness on happy moments. Depending on how you use your memory, the world can become either heaven or hell. The greatness of a human being can only be judged by goodness, not by wealth or possessions. Those who are loved during their lifetime and are not forgotten after death are the truly good people. Make good people your allies; life is about supporting and completing each other. It is better to live surrounded by friends than to be surrounded by enemies. Seek friendship every day, sow the seeds of friendship, and expand your circle of new friends. Accumulating everything can lead to unhappiness. To keep your spirit lively, passion and curiosity are necessary. An overly complacent attitude can lead to misfortune. When desire disappears, worry...

Starting with a cheerful demeanor that does not go overboard is a strength. A bit of humor is sometimes truly necessary. Let's develop the ability to change the atmosphere with a little joke, even in precarious situations. Cheerful people are liked by everyone. Be strict with yourself; you must not engage in actions that go against your values or norms. The standards you set for your behavior should be even stricter than general societal norms. If you manage yourself well, you won't need advice from others. An explosive attitude is never good for you. If you maintain your composure when those around you are losing their calm, you will appear admirable to anyone. Every time you lose your temper, the perception that you are a rational person disappears. Maintain your composure; there is always a positive side to any unpleasant situation. Instead of searching for flaws, it is much happier to find the positive aspects in everything. No matter how difficult it may be...

Let's find a shining fortune within ourselves. If you have the ability to observe well and make the right judgments, you will always remain in a position to lead others. You will also be able to control both people and power without being swayed by either. Sharpen yourself to accurately grasp the essence of your opponent and gain insight into their core, so that you can fully understand them. By examining closely, you will come to understand all the hidden truths deep within a person. There are many lies in the world. Cautious people do not take words at face value. Think carefully before believing what others say. Lies can be hidden not only in words but also in actions. When emotions run high, it is wise to step away. Avoiding arguments is a smart choice. Those who live calmly can not only live longer but also possess the power to navigate daily life effectively, while still paying attention to what is happening now, without getting involved in matters that do not concern them.

Do not interfere; there is nothing as futile as trying to involve yourself in everything that is visible. A hollow inner self will soon be exposed. What is important is the inner self. Always place much more in your inner self than in your appearance. A foolish person acts recklessly. In critical moments, one should not act hastily or without thought. A wise person observes with patience, scouting and waiting for the right moment. Sometimes, even a reckless and ignorant person may succeed if they are lucky, but most of the time, things do not go well. Let us proceed carefully, even when crossing a bridge. There are often cases where people accomplish great things out of necessity. Even someone who cannot swim will find themselves swimming in a drowning situation. Courage is only truly demonstrated when needed, and in emergencies, one can exert strength they never imagined. A crisis is an opportunity to gain reputation. People become great through challenges. If you have conviction, do not surrender. Politicians will cry out for justice.

In the end, betrayals occur. Regardless of the situation, one must uphold their beliefs. A truly honest person does not whimsically change their diligent attitude nor engage in acts of betrayal against others. Instead, they seek the truth wherever it may lead them. They make their counterpart believe that they agree with their thoughts and look for opportunities to undermine that connection. This strategy is particularly useful when there is a risk of conflict. Let us advance quietly; a person's character is reflected in their words. Some believe that conversation should not be too rigid, similar to how one dresses. This is acceptable among friends. However, when showing respect, etiquette must conform to the rules of the occasion. Pay attention to the tone of voice used there and apply it accordingly. One's sincerity should not be doubted due to their manner of speaking. A thoughtful person is always preferred over someone who is merely eloquent. Those who do not listen to others are foolish.

Even those who govern the country do not neglect the opinions of scholars. There is no way to save someone who jumps into the path of destruction when warned by their peers. It is important to keep the door open for friends so that they can express their opinions without hesitation and fear of criticism. Ask for favors when the other person is in a good mood; when they feel good, they are more generous. Timing should be considered carefully. Treat them kindly before making a request. Do not criticize what the world acknowledges. There is likely to be something good in what many people love and enjoy, even if it is not understood. What everyone recognizes must have value, or at least one hopes it does. Keep this thought in mind and let it linger. When you understand the strong desire that drives the other person, you essentially hold the key to changing their mind. In this world, saints are rare, and many people are caught up in something.

That is the point to target. The greatest desire is also the greatest weakness. Do not speak or listen to secrets. Once you share a secret with someone, you become influenced by that person. In such tension, a relationship cannot last. If you speak less, there will be less criticism. You must speak carefully. Humility is sacred. Those who talk too much always fail because of their words. Only speak what you know; then, even if you do not receive praise for being knowledgeable, you can be recognized for your accuracy. There are those who often mock the bad aspects of others, and there are those who try to speak only about the good. People who praise the good qualities will find themselves in demand from many quarters, and others will want to hear their opinions. On the contrary, those who speak negatively and gossip about others in their absence will gradually find that the people around them disappear. Insulting someone who is not present in a conversation is foolish. It is important to take risks and speak the truth.

There are times when you must speak. If the truth may hurt someone, say it gently and politely. It is better to speak with a slight reference to the past. Sometimes, it is necessary to distort the truth rather than not speak it at all. Do not make excessive excuses, even if there is a need to do so. Stop the attitude of packaging yourself; do not belittle your life any longer. Know when to remain silent. Conceal your intentions and create an enigmatic demeanor to keep the other person on edge. You should not reveal every personal matter that lies deep within your heart. Reject things that are meaningless and a waste of time early on. To do this, it is essential to master a polite manner of speaking. Sometimes, a courteous refusal is better than a hasty agreement. However, do not refuse completely and firmly; leave a little room during the refusal. Gentle words carry a warm heart.

Even if harsh words are contained, they can pierce the heart. Even words that provoke the other person can soften if expressed gently, and the other party will also soften their attitude. The only way to be loved by people is to speak warmly. Before things escalate, let it go with a smile. Let’s learn the skill of navigating any situation with a smiling face and a relaxed attitude. Changing the subject is key. A person who speaks clearly is highly valued and respected because all their opinions are properly understood. If the speaker themselves cannot fully understand, how can the listener? Exaggerated expressions are like lies. Overly praising a person or a matter raises expectations. One must choose restrained expressions carefully before speaking them out loud. Speaking concisely not only pleases the listener but also makes good things even better and bad things not so bad.

When the same words are repeated, people perceive him as someone who knows nothing. One should not take away precious time. If you have something to say, it must be expressed concisely. The hearts of people connect through polite language above all else. If you make an effort to show respect even to opposing parties, you will be regarded as a bold individual. Paying a little attention to courtesy can lead to smoother relationships. Expressing fresh opinions and rebutting without fear is essential; those who only agree are not respected, while those who value their own opinions and speak confidently can earn respect. There is no need to seek agreement every time you speak, as it can be bothersome to the listener. The more outstanding a person is, the more their words and actions align. A proper plan reveals intelligence, and the right execution demonstrates sincerity. Both of these qualities must be present to be considered a great leader.

The actions you take are the fruits of your decisions. Do not win dishonorably. Do not engage in actions that violate rules or exploit people unfairly to obtain what you desire. You will only tarnish your reputation, and what you gain will be minimal. Respect is earned through patient effort. Let us earn respect by demonstrating our true worth and fulfilling our roles. An attitude that assumes respect is deserved only proves that one is not worthy of it. Even a king of a nation is not revered simply for being born a king; he seeks to be honored through his influence. Everything depends on discernment. This is what guides you on the right path. Stories that are passed down often contain biases. Whether praise or criticism, be cautious in how you receive it. Pay attention to the source of information. Complete yourself. Everyone is born incomplete and makes gradual progress toward wholeness each day, but many people ultimately remain unfinished.

You may not be able to place it at the completion point. Some mature late. Now, what kind of person will you become? Until now, do not live rightly; live wisely to the point of fear. I have read this to you. Before I share my thoughts, I would like to give two compliments. First, I really like the title of this book. Second, the translation is very smooth and well done. Among the books I have introduced so far, there have been many with disappointing translations, and it is often difficult to express this openly because the publishers tend to feel upset. It’s really unfortunate when a truly great book has a translation that makes the content sound difficult. However, I believe the translation of the book I introduced today is very smooth, and the title is also very precise. In the S meditation and mind management that I learn, the teacher always says not to live kindly but to live wisely.

In that regard, I would like to emphasize two things. The core message of this book, as indicated in the title, is to live wisely rather than just being good. The teaching that one should be good and kind often leads to submissiveness when one lacks the strength and wisdom to protect oneself. Being good is often interpreted as being obedient; when one does not assert their opinions and follows others' suggestions, they are frequently praised as being good. However, goodness is often intertwined with foolishness, much like the relationship between the back of the hand and the palm. We only live once, so we should not live foolishly; we must live wisely. The most significant reason to live wisely is to protect oneself. The second reason is to actively realize one’s life, and the third reason is to benefit others and the world through that process. Historically, there are very few records of truly good people making significant contributions to humanity.

There is no question more valuable to live by than how to become wiser. The word wisdom is composed of two Chinese characters: 贤 (xián), meaning virtuous or good, and 明 (míng), meaning bright or clear. Being virtuous implies goodness, and a wise person is someone who possesses both inner goodness and the outer clarity to gain accurate insights. 

While there is a clear distinction between being virtuous and simply being kind, they share many commonalities. Therefore, the character for virtuous refers to a state of embodying both goodness and kindness internally. The character for bright means not being dark, where darkness represents ignorance and the state of being uninformed. 

If one walks down a dark path, they cannot know where they are heading. Even a faint moonlight is necessary to understand where one is going and to find a better way to reach that destination.

Buddha also spoke of the root of suffering as ignorance. Ignorance means not understanding, specifically a lack of knowledge and awareness. What should we seek to understand? We need to comprehend human nature, the essence of the world, and what it means to live. Everyone has some thoughts or subjective views about humanity, the world, and life, but we must question whether that knowledge is wise enough to protect and illuminate our lives. A wise person, a person of discernment, must strive to be insightful. Jesus also advised to be wise as serpents and innocent as doves. I would like to introduce three methods that can help in achieving this. The most important first step is to look at oneself. People often believe they see themselves clearly, but in reality, this is rarely the case. Our inner concepts and thoughts are so clever and cunning that we often miss our true selves.

To protect ourselves, we often deceive ourselves intensely. To see my true self and my genuine state beyond that barrier of deception, I need to train myself to temporarily distance myself from my current self. This is training to view oneself objectively. I have been studying meditation and mind management for three years, but the act of seeing myself is new every day. It is more thrilling than any movie, drama, or sport. However, it is truly difficult to see myself alone. I need a perceptive teacher. 

The second method is to not cling to anything. As stated in the Diamond Sutra, Form is emptiness, emptiness is form. Even if a thought arises, I do not regard it as the truth, nor do I linger on it or become bound by it. Instead, I constantly seek what might be more desirable. In the S Mind Management I am learning, this is referred to as transcendent reason. When transcendent reason is established...

The more you establish yourself, the more you can view yourself objectively, and the instances of being stuck or bound to anything decrease. This training to cultivate transcendent reason is never boring and is always exciting. The third method is meditation and mental management. Originally, our country was a great nation of meditation. However, due to the emergence of these three massive crises, our nation's spirit and culture have not yet recovered. Nevertheless, I believe that in the coming years, our nation's spirit will be revitalized. We are entering an era of K-Spirit and K-Meditation that surpasses pop culture and K-dramas. People engage in various activities during their leisure time. Some just kill time watching TV, while others spend time exercising, and others immerse themselves in learning instruments or artistic activities. I have also engaged in various activities, but meditation and mental management are excellent practices for self-cultivation and hold significant professional potential.

I believe it is an important field. The reason I invest most of my leisure time in studying meditation and mind management is because of this. The advantages of meditation and mind management are that they are enjoyable and beneficial while practicing, and the more you do them, the more helpful and enjoyable they become. I strongly recommend meditation and mind management as a way to live life joyfully, healthily, and wisely. Currently, the S Meditation Center located in Gyeonggi-do is set to expand and relocate to Cheongpyeong-myeon in Gapyeong-gun next month. Once the remodeling is completed, we plan to conduct programs there where people can learn meditation and mind management in earnest. I hope those who are interested will come and enjoy a healthier and wiser life. That was my daily reflection. Thank you.

바르게 살지 마라 무섭도록 현명하게 살아라 / 발타사르 그라시안 / 빅피시

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브런치: 책한민국


책한민국

The Art of Worldly Wisdom by Baltasar Gracián

Baltasar Gracián, a 17th-century Spanish philosopher, wrote a influential book called The Art of Worldly Wisdom.

The book had a profound impact on notable figures like Schopenhauer, Nietzsche, and Churchill, who considered it a life guide.

The book offers practical advice on self-presentation, relationships, and the importance of associations in achieving moderation and wisdom.

The Art of Navigating Social and Professional Life

It's important to not blindly follow those in high positions and to avoid imitating their flaws.

Choose friends who are supportive and sincere.

When interacting with others, take the time to consider their perspective and avoid immediate rebuttals.

The Art of Focusing and Self-Preservation

- It is important to set a clear goal and avoid wandering aimlessly to make the most of your time and effort.

- Protecting your reputation and concealing your strengths is crucial, as is avoiding the blame game and maintaining consistency in relationships.

- Cultivate diverse talents, know when to step back, and prioritize patience over passion for achieving good results.

Being proactive and brave can attract good luck, while laziness can lead to misfortune.

It's important to maintain composure and emotional balance, as well as endure the flaws of others.

Flexibility, wisdom, and the ability to adapt to circumstances are key to achieving goals and finding happiness.

Self-restraint is crucial for self-protection, especially in risky situations.

Maintaining calmness and composure is essential for facing challenges, as it allows for clear judgment and the ability to find the positive in any situation.

Living with strict personal standards and a cautious attitude towards others' words and actions can lead to a longer, more peaceful life.

Navigating Life with Wisdom and Integrity

It is important to prioritize inner self-improvement over outer appearance and to approach life's challenges with patience and careful observation.

One's character is reflected in their words, and it is crucial to speak the truth gently, avoid gossip, and know when to remain silent.

Mastering the art of polite and thoughtful speech, as well as knowing when to offer a courteous refusal, is essential in navigating life with wisdom and integrity.

Speaking gently can soften attitudes and lead to better connections with others.

Using restrained and concise expressions is important to avoid raising false expectations and to effectively communicate.

Expressing fresh opinions with confidence is crucial for earning respect and making a positive impact.

The Path to Wisdom: Insights from Chinese and Buddhist Philosophy

The Chinese word for wisdom combines the characters for virtuous and bright, emphasizing the inner goodness and clear insight of a wise person.

Buddha and Jesus both emphasized the importance of understanding and knowledge in overcoming ignorance and suffering.

Self-reflection, transcendent reasoning, and meditation are recommended methods for achieving wisdom and clarity in life, offering both personal growth and professional potential.

The S Meditation Center in South Korea is expanding to offer programs for those seeking a healthier and wiser life through meditation and mind management.