Sharks and Scribes

1. The Size of the Shark

Once, while visiting an aquarium with friends, we encountered a curious traveler who approached an attendant with a question. "How large will this shark grow to be?" he inquired.

The attendant gestured towards the tank and replied, "That depends on the size of your aquarium."

Piqued by his response, the traveler pressed further, "Will it grow up to be as big as the aquarium?"

With a thoughtful expression, the attendant explained, "Within an aquarium, a shark's growth in size is limited to a few meters. But in the open ocean, it can grow in size to such an extent that it could swallow a lion whole."

Moral of the story: Environment has the power to shape one's thoughts. It can restrict our thinking, but we also have the ability to limit our own minds. Do not confine yourself; when you cannot change the environment, start by changing yourself.

2.Two Calligraphers

During the reign of Emperor Qianlong in the Qing Dynasty, there were two calligraphers whose approaches to their craft were diametrically opposed. One diligently imitated the ancients, striving for each stroke to resemble those of masters like Su Dongpo or Mi Fu. Naturally, upon achieving this level of mastery, he felt quite pleased with himself.

The other calligrapher took a different path, not only practicing arduously but also insisting that every stroke must differ from the ancients, valuing originality. Only when he had reached this point did he feel a sense of reassurance.

One day, the first calligrapher derided the second, asking,"Might I inquire, which stroke in your script is from the ancients?"

Instead of taking offense, the second calligrapher smiled and countered gently,"And may I ask you in return, which stroke in your script is truly yours?"

Upon hearing this, the first calligrapher was left speechless.

Moral of the story: When carving out one's path, one should not extinguish their individuality by mindlessly imitating others. Such actions can lead to a loss of self and an inability to take control of one's own destiny.