"徳は海に河が失われるように自己利益に失われる"

When we focus on our self-interest, our virtues disappear much like rivers vanish into the vast expanse of the sea. This idea reminds us that our good qualities and moral values often get overshadowed by our own desires and ambitions.

To better understand this, imagine the context. It’s like saying that when we act solely for our own benefit, the integrity, kindness, and honesty we once held dear can dissolve just like a small stream merging into the ocean, becoming indistinguishable. This was probably said to highlight the dangers of selfishness and the importance of maintaining our moral compass even when pursuing our personal goals.

Think about a real-life example: Imagine a dedicated doctor who started their career with the noble intention of helping the sick. Over time, as they gained recognition and wealth, they began prioritizing high-paying patients over those in dire need. Their initial virtues of compassion and empathy became lost in their newfound self-interest, just like those little rivers.

Now, how can you apply this wisdom in your own life? It’s pretty straightforward: always check your motivations. Ask yourself why you’re doing something. Is it for the greater good, or is it just for personal gain? If you notice your actions are leaning more towards self-interest, try to readjust. It’s not always easy, but it’s worth it.

Let’s bring this to life with a story. Picture Sarah, a young entrepreneur with dreams of making a positive impact through her eco-friendly business. Initially, her focus was on sustainability, reducing waste, and promoting green practices. As her business grew, so did the pressures. Investors wanted higher returns, and the market demanded cheaper products. Gradually, Sarah started cutting corners—opting for less sustainable materials to save money. Her initial passion and virtue for the environment became secondary to her desire for success. One day, an old friend pointed out how far she had strayed from her original mission. That was Sarah’s wake-up call. She realized her virtues had been lost in her self-interest, much like rivers merging into the sea. Determined to get back on track, she made a conscious effort to realign her business practices with her core values, even if it meant slower financial growth.

We can all take a page out of Sarah’s book. Think about what you stand for and why you started your journey. If you ever find yourself drifting, remember the importance of staying true to your virtues. Catch yourself before your good intentions get swept away by the tide of self-interest.

So next time you’re faced with a decision, big or small, take a moment. Reflect on your true motivations. Are you being guided by your virtues, or are you letting self-interest take the lead? Remember, it’s never too late to realign your actions with your values. And that’s the crux of it—keeping your virtues intact amidst the sea of self-interest.