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Life is a long journey filled with countless choices. Those who choose to strive
will lead vibrant lives, while those who seek pleasure will find themselves
languishing. Choices pervade our everyday lives and stand before us at every
crossroad of our existence. Every choice we make bears its own consequences.
Imagine if I were to offer you a dazzling diamond and an ordinary glass ball,
which one would you choose? According to surveys, most children would opt for
the glass ball without hesitation, drawn by the immediate sensory pleasure it
brings. If a child were to choose the diamond, seemingly devoid of much
amusement, it would signify an early maturity.
Choices always demand sacrifices. Take, for example, the story of a fox
passing by a vineyard teeming with juicy grapes, its mouthwatering at the sight.
However, a fence obstructed its path, making it impossible to enter. So, the fox
decided to fast for three days, shedding weight to eventually squeeze through
the gap in the fence and feast on the grapes. Alas, it ate too much and couldn't
get back out. The fox's greed led to its doom. Thus, we must choose wisely and
act with virtue, for otherwise, we will bear heavy consequences.
Choices should be guided by virtue. In the wilderness, a person lost their
way, tormented by hunger and thirst. Dragging their heavy feet, they eventually
stumbled upon an abandoned shack. The shack had been deserted for a long time,
battered by wind and rain, and on the table inside lay a water jug and a spare
siphon. The mouth of the jug was corked, and a note rested on it, saying, "Pour
the water into the siphon first, so others can clean themselves after you, and
only then can you drink." The person hesitated upon seeing the note: should they
follow it and help others before quenching their thirst, or should they just
drink without concern? Ultimately, they chose to act with virtue and followed
the instructions.
In conclusion, life confronts us with various choices, demanding careful
consideration. Failure to do so will result in shame from others and inevitable
adverse consequences for ourselves. The power of choice lies within us, shaping
our lives and defining our character. |
