A famous saying of Li Shimin, Emperor Taizong, was recorded in The Biography of Wei Zhi in the New Tang Dynasty: With copper as a mirror, you can dress your clothes; Taking the past as a mirror, we can know the rise and fall; Take people as a mirror, you can know the gains and losses.
Glass mirrors were introduced into China only in the Ming Dynasty. In the past, most people used bronze mirrors, so Emperor Taizong said "take copper as a mirror". His words are easy to understand. Look in the mirror, and you will know whether your hat is straight and your clothes are neatly dressed. Looking at the causes and development of historical events, we can find out the reasons for the rise and fall of the country; Listen to other people's impressions and comments on your thoughts and actions, and you will know whether you are doing right or wrong. Li Shimin's original intention was to praise Wei Zhi, feel sorry for Wei Zheng's death, and also to reflect on and govern the country. Of course, "the rule of Zhenguan" can not be separated from Li Shimin's work attitude and general plan of governing the country. His experience and summary also left profound enlightenment and reference significance for future generations.
Confucius said: "when you see a saint, you want to see him;" When you see a person who is not virtuous, you will reflect on how you did it. "
This passage is not difficult to understand. When you meet a saint, you should learn to catch up with him. When you meet an immoral person, you should reflect on whether you have the same fault. Through this passage, we can associate with the image of a gentleman who studies tirelessly and makes unremitting efforts.
Learning is an important feature of Confucius. He is determined to study from the tenth five-year plan and work hard all his life. When you see the advantages of others, you should learn from them. When you see others have shortcomings, you should think about whether you have such shortcomings, and if so, correct them.
There are many stories about Confucius' eagerness to learn. For example, Confucius loved reading the Book of Changes in his later years. In order to understand the ideas, he repeatedly read and studied, even "Bian Wei's Three Musts". In order to learn from Shao, Confucius immersed himself in it, so that "I don't know the taste of meat in March." In order to learn more knowledge, he was not ashamed to ask, saying, "Choose the good and follow it, and change the bad."