Ti Tzu Kui - Chapter 4 - Be Trustworthy

Be Trustworthy

When using other people's things, one must clearly ask. If one doesn't ask, then it is stealing. When borrowing other people's things, return them on time. When other people borrow things from you, if you have them don't be stingy. (See for the foregoing.) When I speak, honesty is important. Deceitful words and lies must not be tolerated. (See for the following.) Talking a lot is not as good as talking less. Say only what is true; don't be glib or tricky. Cutting and disdainful words, wicked and dirty words, all are vulgar air - absolutely refrain from them. When still unsure of what you are seeing, do not lightly say it. When still unsure of what you know, don't lightly spread it. If conditions aren't favorable, don't lightly make promises. If lightly make promises, then both going forward and backing off are wrong. Whenever words are said, say them with weight and relaxation, not hurriedly or quickly, nor in a blurred and unintelligible way. This person gossips about someone; that person gossips about someone else; if it doesn't concern you, don't participate. Upon seeing others being good, think of becoming equally good. Even when far below them, gradually get better. Upon seeing others being bad, inspect yourself. If you are like them then correct it; if not then be vigilant. In virtue and learning, in ability and skill, if not as good as others, then spur yourself to catch up. If it's in clothing and attire, or housing and food, that you are not as good as others, then don't be concerned. Becoming angry upon hearing your shortcomings and becoming happy upon hearing praise, will cause harmful friends to come, and beneficial friends to leave. Becoming fearful upon hearing praise, and becoming happy when hearing your shortcomings, will cause straight and honest gentlemen to gradually draw close. Doing wrong unintentionally is called making a mistake. Doing wrong intentionally is called committing an evil. If one corrects what one has done wrong, then it's as if it hasn't happened. If one covers up, then one adds to one's guilt.