Has anyone among you ever heard the saying "If the water is too clear, there are no fish"? I also have, and it’s been a long time since I remembered it and truly understood its profound meaning.

This proverb is very good, but most people only remember the first half and forget the second half: "If people are too careful, they will have no disciples." The first half is about appearances, the second half is about the essence. In fact, it’s talking about ways of living, ways of interacting with those around us.

I researched more carefully and found that the origin of this saying comes from the Book of Rites of the Western Han. Its initial meaning is quite interesting: if the water is too clear, fish cannot survive; if people are too meticulous, no one will want to get close. I find this really reasonable.

There are three reasons why water that is too clear has no fish. First, fish will be easily exposed to natural enemies or humans. Second, overly clear water means a lack of nutrients, and fish cannot survive. Third, it’s a natural law—everything needs balance.

The second half of the saying is about people. The word "careful" here doesn’t mean good caution but excessive strictness, demanding too much from others. If you always see each other with a critical eye, always looking for faults in others, no one will want to be close to you. If the water is too clear, there are no fish; if a person is too strict, they will have no friends.

I see this wisdom still very relevant today. At home, we should be tolerant of our parents, understanding that they are not perfect but try their best. With spouses, instead of always arguing, we should find common ground and accept differences harmoniously. With children, praise more, criticize less, and you will see your children progress unconsciously.

At work, harmony with colleagues is key. It’s not always about judging each other by impeccable standards. When everyone feels respected, creativity can flourish. With friends, the most important thing is to find common ground while still maintaining differences.

Life is too short. No one is perfect, including us. Instead of always criticizing, be more tolerant and understanding. Less harshness is a form of tolerance, a form of self-cultivation, a state of living that I believe will bring us more happiness.