Always Do Simple Things

Xuefeng

Big things start from small beginnings; without small things, there are no big things. By consistently doing simple tasks, difficult things become manageable; when things are often easy, difficult matters cease to exist. Complexity is embedded in simplicity. By consistently focusing on simple tasks, complexity will vanish.

A towering building starts from the ground, and a masterpiece begins with a single character. Trees grow into forests, and tiny drops accumulate into oceans.

There are no difficult things in practice; it’s about keeping a heart full of gratitude. Cultivation doesn’t require much effort; a calm and peaceful heart is sufficient. Being a good person is simple: be honest, keep your word, and don't take unfair advantage of others. Becoming a celestial being is not unattainable; it’s about seeking freedom, joy, health, and blessings.

There are no big, difficult, or complex matters in the world—only small, easy, and simple things.

Yesterday has passed, and another sun rises in the east. The past cannot be reclaimed, so focus on the present. Brush your teeth, wash your face, and clean the courtyard. Show care and concern for your parents, remind your children to tie their shoelaces, and tell your spouse, “You look beautiful today.” Read a book, get some work done, jot down some thoughts, mend the wall, block mouse holes, stretch your muscles, focus on your own business, avoid envying others' happiness, and refrain from yearning for others' higher status. Do not seek fame or recognition; seek only peace, health, and harmony. Enjoy the simplicity of plain meals and the contentment found in mending and patching. Be true to yourself in your dealings with heaven, earth, and people. Even if you enter Zhongnanhai or the White House, maintain your integrity. If you can do this consistently, you are indeed extraordinary.

Don’t waste your energy on pointless arguments. Be quick to say, “I’m sorry,” and don't let grievances make you angry. Believe that the Greatest Creator loves you.

Don’t aim for grand achievements; focus on the small tasks at hand. Act within your capabilities and avoid letting vanity harm you. Avoid associating with wrongdoers. Conflicts often arise at the table of food and drink, and cheap deals frequently bring trouble. Accept what is rightfully yours and firmly refuse what isn’t. If you avoid wrongdoing, spirits will not disturb you. If you see gold by the roadside, treat it as if it were a cancer virus—keep your distance.

In your leisure time, listen to some music to refine your temperament; occasionally savor quotes from “Precepts for Family Management by Various Masters,” “Extended Maxims for the Wise,” or “Vegetable Roots Discourse,” to appreciate the wisdom and virtue of the sages. Or reflect on the spiritual realms of gods, buddhas, and celestial beings from “The Intermediate Treasury of Classical Advice.”

A tree cannot survive without its bark, and a person cannot be without friends. True friends are the best of treasures, people among people. A teacher imparts knowledge and resolves doubts, while friends discuss Tao and alleviate boredom. Reverence for heaven, earth, and deities, and respect for parents and friends are essential.

Always see yourself as the humblest person in the world. Don't be afraid of filth or dislike pigsties. Let others have the best and take the lowest place for yourself. If you live this way, life will be renewed every day, and you will climb step by step. No path will seem too difficult, and you will navigate through the world with ease.

Every day, focus on small tasks. Start with the easiest tasks, and complete simple things promptly. Don’t try to move mountains first; start by gently wiping away small grains of sand from your eyes. Don’t attempt to push a train first; remove small grains of sand from your shoes. Don’t think about distant treasures first; manage your small plot of land well. Don’t strive to become a celestial being or a Buddha; be a simple, ordinary, reliable person first.

Don’t rush; be calm. If the sky falls or the earth sinks, just play your tune. If it rains or your mother wants to remarry, don’t be sad or worried. If your partner leaves or children disappoint you, let it be. “As long as there are green hills, there’s no need to worry about firewood.” As long as our Home is intact, don’t fear loneliness. Life is a journey where nothing is truly gained or lost; there's no fear of changing to a new vehicle to the new realm.

Unable to do grand things, I can only focus on the small tasks of writing articles. Complex matters require effort; I prefer the simplicity of writing. If you’re idle, it’s better to do something within your capability. Working is better than idleness. Heaven doesn’t disappoint the diligent, so accumulate virtue where you can. Small efforts should not be avoided.

Another sun rises in the east. Friend, from today on, focus on the smallest, simplest, and easiest tasks. As the sun sets, finish the smallest and simplest tasks at hand. You will feel at ease in your heart.