The Analects of Confucius

Wisdom through words is personal insight drawn from the analects of Confucius:

Indeed, it was a journey through the timeless landscape of wisdom and profound insight when I read "The Analects of Confucius". The teachings and thoughts attributed to Confucius showed me the very foundation of ethics, morality, and human relationships. How relevant and applicable his teachings remain in this world today still is just amazing for one who can absorb the thoughts of a man living more than two thousand years ago.

The beauty of "The Analects" is that it keeps an informal conversation whereby Confucius interacts with his disciples. It was a style that made me feel as if I were in the discussion, feeling the exchange of ideas and concepts. Some of the teachings of Confucius basically revolve on the issue of virtue, benevolence, and how one should cultivate moral character. It makes me think of the pace to which these ideals resonate with me in life, the decisions I take day by day. The idea of personal integrity shapes not only one's self but also the world outside of oneself is a concept that cuts too deeply within my bones to pursue the loftier form of morality within my relationships.

Among the dominant themes in "The Analects" is the theme of "ren," which can be said as humaneness. Actually, for Confucius, showing leniency and kindness towards other people was the thought that really led me to question the relationships I sustain in my life. It became more conscious for me of how vital "ren" was when it comes to the treatment of people. This makes me treat the people in my family, friend circle, as well as to an unknown face sympathetically and compassionately. Respect for human kind is what principle I want in every activity which I perform daily.

Confucius spoke widely about education as well as cultivation of oneself. It was because of the inner hitting when I really appreciated those words, quoted "Education breeds confidence, confidence breeds hope, and hope breeds peace." Upon reevaluation of what I've gone through for my education and how things really changed, that was my reformation, making something close to my heart a thing for which there's an important desire-the thirst to continue learning, academically or morally. When Confucius said one learns from mistakes but also learns from his successes, he told me that knowledge is not made in books, but rather experienced. To me, each problem has become an opportunity for growth and a stepping stone to becoming a better person.

"The Analects" also discusses leadership in nature. A good leader should be a role model, as said by Confucius. That is to say he should live by what he wants the others to live by. I loved that so much and even started thinking about my own leadership in life whether in student groups, community projects, or even work. I well know integrity and humility are among the quality factors that set excellent leaders apart in life, but those filter into my immediate circles, and those people begin making similar ripples in society at large. So I step forward eagerly, take the bull by its horns, and set up an example before others in action.

Another lesson that can be drawn from "The Analects" is the importance of filial piety: respect and reverence for one's parents and ancestors. Respect for family is an absolute requirement to construct a harmonious society, according to Confucius. For me, it is really poignant as it makes me look back into the relationships with my family, remind myself of all the values imparted upon me by my parents while sacrificing time to make sure I was secure and safe. Recognition and appreciation for their sacrifices motivate me to continually develop relationships with my family even further. Valuing their influence and carrying out their teachings over generations continues inspiring me to relate with them deeper and better.

The Analects was finished I was indeed awed at the depth of the insight Confucius gives with regard to the human experience, teaching that goes beyond time and cultures, the impression being more of a source of wisdom coming forth into that time when I read the book. It is, therefore that perhaps the searching for knowledge virtue would then connect one's humanity and bind each one of us like humankind at first in the first place.