Date: October 1, 2026
Study Log:
- Recited The Doctrine of the Mean (Zhongyong) — 1 round.
- Read Fa Li De Dao up to page 160.
Study Reflection:
The essence of “Fa” is rules and discipline. Without rules, nothing takes shape — a nation has its laws,
a family its principles, and every organization or platform must operate within its own boundaries.
Take the master‑apprentice relationship as an example. The foundation of a good bond lies in choosing
the right apprentice. The best apprentice is not necessarily the smartest, but the one with the deepest
sense of filial piety. When Yan Hui, Confucius’s most beloved disciple, passed away, why did Confucius
choose Zengzi as his successor? Zengzi was not quick‑witted — in fact, he was often described as slow
and deliberate. Yet Confucius chose him because he was a man of great filial devotion. Thus, the foremost
criterion for a true successor is filial piety.
But the master, too, must lead by example. A master is like a father; he must embody filial piety and virtue
himself. As the saying goes, “Children learn by imitation.” Every word and action of the master leaves a
lasting imprint on the apprentice’s life. Only when the master fulfills his own duties and upholds discipline
can the apprentice naturally follow, observe the rules, and fulfill his responsibilities.
On the surface, “Fa” appears as a system of regulations. But at its core, it is still about rules — much like a
company that establishes countless policies and procedures. Yet no matter how many rules are written down,
they do not necessarily restrain people, because as the old saying warns, “There are always countermeasures
below for every policy above.” Only when people truly internalize and embrace the organization’s culture and
values will rules take root as a natural code of conduct.
Therefore, a leader cannot rely on rules alone. He must put people first — caring for employees not just as
workers, but as human beings with families and children, showing genuine warmth and concern. When employees
feel this sincerity, they will naturally come to believe: by upholding the rules, the company thrives; and when the
company thrives, their own parents, spouses, and children will be cared for in return. This creates a virtuous cycle.
Rules and systems are indispensable — for without them, nothing can be built. But they must not be used merely as
instruments of punishment. Compassion and care should be the foundation. When everyone shares the same values
and moves in the same direction, people can work together in unison, making the enterprise stronger and achieving
far greater things.
Always mindful in every moment,
Auspiciousness arises in every place.
With a heart that benefits the world,
And courage in every single thought.
