The Power of Talent and Virtue: A Qing Dynasty Tale

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translated from Chinese with ChatGPT

During the late Qing period, near Bijiashan in Yiyang, there was a couple, both of whom were talented in literature. However, due to their impoverished circumstances, they struggled daily to make ends meet.

On the eve of the Dragon Boat Festival, the wife, well-versed in poetry, was deeply moved by their family’s hardships and composed a seven-character quatrain:

• Shamed of my ill fate meet a husband poor  ,
• Tomorrow's festival brings us rural.
• The festival is best spent in emptiness,
• Boiling plain water with wild veggis.

Seeing his wife’s poem, the husband felt both ashamed and determined to cheer her up. So, on the night before the Dragon Boat Festival, he sneaked out and stole a cow from near Bijiashan, intending to sell it the next day to buy festival supplies and give his wife a proper celebration.

Unexpectedly, when he brought the cow to the market, he was caught by the owner, who reported him to the county court, and he faced imprisonment.

Upon hearing the news, the wife rushed to the county court, beating the drum to plead for justice. She explained that her husband was emulating the cowherd star in the sky and had no intention of stealing. If anyone was to blame, it should be her for writing the poem, and she was willing to take the responsibility.

The county magistrate, an upright official who appreciated talent, was intrigued by the story and the wife’s literary skills. He wanted to test her talent further.

Pointing to three items on the desk—ink water, an inkstone, and a chess set—he asked the wife to compose three poems on the spot, each containing the word "cow". The wife, eager to save her husband, gladly accepted and immediately began to compose.

1. The first item was 'water':

• The river flows relentlessly east,
• Unable to wash away my husband’s shameful deed.
• I deeply regret not being the weaving girl,
• Why must my good man emulate the cowherd?

2. The second item was 'inkstone':

• A mere stone from the common folk,
• Carved by craftsmen to serve nobles.
• A slight move brings lightning clouds,
• Flashes of brilliance like brave cow.

3. The third item was 'chess set':

• Two countries at war endless strife,
• Soldiers cross river, the water stucked.
• Chariots, horses, cannons, and elephants 
• Not a single cow, amen.

The magistrate, impressed by her talent, ordered the release of her husband and appointed him to work in the court. This story illustrates that behind every successful man is a wise woman. A virtuous woman can turn misfortune into fortune, and it also emphasizes the power of knowledge to change everything.

This article is excellent and worth reading. Please share it with your good friends!

網上好文章

前清時期，益陽筆架山附近有對夫妻，男女皆有文才。只因家境貧窮，時日都揭不開鍋地過著貧困日子。

是日，為逢端午節的前日。飽讀詩書的妻子，對家庭的困境感慨動情，隨即吟成七絕一首:

自慚薄命遇窮夫，

明日端陽樣樣無。

佳節只宜虛度過，

寥將白水煮蒼莆。

丈夫看到妻子的詩，既感慚愧對不起妻子，又覺得自己應該想辦法讓妻子高興。於是在端午節前夜，丈夫一人悄悄出門，在筆架山附近偷回來了一頭牛，準備明日賣了換些節貨，好好讓妻子過一次真正的端午節。

誰都沒想到，當丈夫把牛牽到市場交易時，竟被失主逮了個正著，錢沒換到，人卻被告到了縣衙，還要面臨牢獄之災。

妻子聞訊，隨即趕往縣衙大堂，擂鼓鳴冤，說她夫君是在學天上的牽牛星牽牛，根本沒有偷牛的意思，如果丈夫有責任，也是因為自己寫詩的原因，責任應由自己承擔，不能怪罪丈夫。

縣令是個惜才的清官，聽到妻子誦詩招至丈夫違法的趣事，非常感興趣，覺得面前這位女子才華不錯，並有意放過她丈夫。故還想當面試試女子的才氣。

縣令指著案頭三樣物品磨墨的水，硯台和一副象棋，讓女子即興作詩三首。要求毎首詩中都必須有一個"牛"字。 女子聽完縣令的話，就能憑自己的才氣搭救丈夫，心中甚是高興。 女子不加思索，張口即來。

㈠ 第一件物品是『水』:

滔滔河水向東流，

難洗夫君滿面羞。

深恨妾身非織女，

良人何必仿牽牛！

㈡ 第二件物品是『硯台』:

本是民間一石頭，

匠人雕刻伴公侯。

輕輕一動烏雲起，

文光電閃射鬥牛。

㈢ 第三件物品是『象棋』:

兩國相爭誓不休，

兵卒過河水無流。

車馬炮象般般有，

唯獨缺少一頭牛。

縣令看了，拍案叫絕，真乃閨中才女！ 當即吩咐衙役放了她丈夫，並讓她丈夫即日進衙門當差。 此故事不僅讓人感覺到成功的男人背後都有位賢淑的女人。 賢良的女人最能善解人意，逢凶化吉。 更讓人們懂得知識的力量可以改變一切。

此文很好，值得一讀。  請和你們的好朋友分享！

10個養生方法 | 10 Health Tips

網上好文章

老祖宗留下來的10個養生方法。

1.天補：

就是要多出門，多呼吸新鮮空氣，多曬太陽，多曬後背。

2.地補：

去山上，農田，海邊走走，多接觸土地，大自然，看看花草，聽聽鳥語，聞聞花香，接接地氣，看日出日落，看星辰大海。(現在的人住樓房，穿絕緣鞋，很少能接到地氣，使得慢性病患增多）

3.人補：

多跟自己喜歡的人在一起，多跟讓自己快樂的人在一起，多跟擁有正能量的人在一起，保持心情愉悅。

4.靜補：

學會和自己獨處，聽從內心的聲音，放鬆身心，放空自己，冥想，靜坐。

5.書補：

每天讀書半小時，在無聲的文字裡，感受生命的力量，與陌生的靈魂對話，讓文字滋潤靈魂，在文字裡尋覓精神家園，讓自己的內心世界，豐富、寧靜而又美好。

6.食補：

均衡飲食，多吃水果、深色食物和五穀雜糧，少油、少鹽、少辛辣。

7.動補：

生命在於活動，如散步、打太極、跳舞、練瑜伽、唱歌等。適度運動，可以讓我們開心與健康。

8.心補：

保持良好的心態，萬事看淡看透，不糾結，不埋怨，不比較。命裡有時終須有，命裡無時莫強求。保持善良和感恩，才能造就更好的自己。

9.知補：

活到老學到老，終身學習新的知識技能。增強認知，開拓視野，讓未知的世界始終與自己相伴，讓我們一生都擁有一份堅強的求知欲。

10.笑補：

笑一笑，十年少。相由心生，愛笑的人慈眉善目，不爭不搶，不怒不怨，萬事看開，得失隨緣，一笑了之。

A Good Read from Internet

10 Effective Methods for Preserving Your Health

1. Heavenly Supplement:

• Spend more time outdoors.
• Breathe in fresh air.
• Bask in the sun, particularly on your back.

2. Ground Supplement:

• Visit mountains, farmlands, and the seaside for walks.
• Connect with nature by observing flowers, listening to birds, and smelling the fragrances of flowers.
• Stay grounded by watching sunrises and sunsets and gazing at the stars and the sea.

3. People Supplement:

• Spend more time with people who make you happy.
• Surround yourself with positive, uplifting individuals.

4. Static Tonic:

• Learn to enjoy solitude and listen to your inner voice.
• Relax your body and mind through meditation and quiet sitting.

5. Book Supplement:

• Read for at least half an hour every day.
• Let books enrich your soul and provide inner peace and beauty.

6. Food Supplements:

• Maintain a balanced diet.
• Eat more fruits, dark-colored foods, and whole grains.
• Use less oil, salt, and avoid spicy foods.

7. Dynamic Supplement:

• Engage in regular physical activities such as walking, Tai Chi, dancing, yoga, and singing.
• Moderate exercise contributes to happiness and health.

8. Heart Tonic:

• Cultivate a positive attitude and approach life lightly.
• Avoid entanglement, complaints, and comparisons.
• Embrace kindness and gratitude for a better self.

9. Knowledge Supplement:

• Commit to lifelong learning and skill acquisition.
• Enhance cognition, broaden horizons, and maintain a thirst for knowledge.

10. Laughter:

• Smile often and let go of stress.
• Embrace friendship and kindness.
• Maintain an open mind, accept life’s ups and downs, and laugh off troubles.

These methods encompass physical, mental, and emotional health, promoting a well-rounded approach to maintaining well-being.

Bill Gates on Revolutionizing Education: How AI is Shaping the Future of Teaching

 

In the rapidly evolving AI era, Bill Gates has shared compelling insights on how artificial intelligence can transform education. Here are some key points from his discussions:

AI Chatbots for Literacy:

Gates envisions AI chatbots playing a crucial role in teaching children to read and write. He predicts that within the next 18 months, AI-powered systems will match the effectiveness of human tutors in enhancing kids' literacy skills.

These chatbots can customize lessons for individual students, offering personalized support and addressing educational gaps. For example, Khan Academy’s experimental AI chatbot tutor, "Khanmigo," aims to assist students worldwide by using AI to improve learning experiences.

Closing the Education Gap:

AI has the potential to close the education gap, especially for low-income students in developing countries. By providing direct assistance and personalized learning experiences, AI can empower students who lack access to one-on-one tutoring.

Teacher Support and Equity:

Gates acknowledges that while AI can enhance education, teachers remain indispensable. AI tools can reduce teachers' workload, allowing them to focus more on individual student needs. The goal is to create equity by ensuring all students receive a quality education, regardless of their background.

Fact-Checking and Caution:

Parents should be cautious when integrating AI into their children's education. While AI chatbots show promise, they can still make mistakes. Parents can use AI tools alongside their children to teach them how to fact-check in real time.

In summary, AI has the potential to revolutionize education by providing personalized support, closing educational gaps, and enhancing overall achievement. As technology evolves, we can anticipate exciting developments in the educational landscape. For further insights, explore Sal Khan’s book “Brave New Words: How AI Will Revolutionize Education.” 

AI時代怎麼教小孩？聽比爾蓋茲談未來教育

在快速發展的人工智慧時代，比爾蓋茲分享了關於人工智慧如何改變教育的令人信服的見解。以下是他討論中的一些要點：

人工智慧聊天機器人提升讀寫能力：

蓋茲設想人工智慧聊天機器人在教導孩子閱讀和寫作方面發揮著至關重要的作用。他預測，在未來 18 個月內，人工智慧驅動的系統在提高孩子的識字技能方面將與人類導師的效果相媲美。

這些聊天機器人可以為個別學生量身定制課程，提供個人化支援並解決教育差距。例如，可汗學院的實驗性人工智慧聊天機器人導師「Khanmigo」旨在透過使用人工智慧改善學習體驗來幫助世界各地的學生。

縮小教育差距：

人工智慧有潛力縮小教育差距，特別是對於發展中國家的低收入學生而言。透過提供直接幫助和個人化學習體驗，人工智慧可以為無法獲得一對一輔導的學生提供幫助。

教師支持與公平：

蓋茲承認，雖然人工智慧可以加強教育，但教師仍然不可或缺。人工智慧工具可以減輕教師的工作量，使他們能夠更專注於學生的個別需求。目標是透過確保所有學生（無論其背景如何）都能接受優質教育來創造公平。

事實查核與警告：

家長在將人工智慧融入孩子的教育時應謹慎。儘管人工智慧聊天機器人顯示出前景，但它們仍然會犯錯。家長可以與孩子一起使用人工智慧工具，教導他們如何即時進行事實查核。

總之，人工智慧有潛力透過提供個人化支援、縮小教育差距和提高整體成績來徹底改變教育。隨著科技的發展，我們可以預見教育領域將出現令人興奮的發展。如需更多見解，請探索 Sal Khan 的著作《勇敢的新詞：人工智慧將如何徹底改變教育》。

Deepest gratitude for the outstanding care and successful surgery

Dear Dr. Ginsberg and the Neurosurgery Team,

I am writing to express my deepest gratitude for the outstanding care and successful surgery I received for my subdural hematoma at St. Michael's Hospital.  The operation was very successful, and I am immensely thankful for your expertise and dedication.

Your exceptional skill and attention to detail were evident throughout my treatment, providing me with great comfort and confidence during a difficult time. The successful outcome of the surgery has had a profound impact on my recovery, and I am forever grateful for your efforts.

Following my discharge, I was transferred to St. John’s Rehab, where I spent two weeks in recovery. During the time of hospitalization and rehab, I encountered numerous doctors, nurses, and staff members who were all incredibly kind and supportive. Their dedication to making patients feel at home while receiving medical treatment was truly remarkable.

The combined efforts of everyone at both St. Michael's Hospital and St. John’s Rehab have played a crucial role in my recovery. I am now on the path to regaining my health, and I owe this to the exceptional care I received from all of you.

Thank you Dr. Howard Ginsberg and the neurosurgery team once again for your incredible work and compassionate care.

I take this opportinity to express my sincere gratitude for the medical coverage provided during my recent hospitalization. Your support ensured that I received the necessary care without the added stress of financial concerns as Ohip covers all the expenses.I deeply appreciate the efforts of the entire OHIP team in facilitating this coverage. Your commitment to the well-being of patient is truly commendable.

Thank you once again for the invaluable assistance.

With heartfelt appreciation,

親愛的金斯伯格醫師和神經外科團隊，

我寫這封信是為了對我在聖邁克爾醫院因顱骨硬膜下血腫而得到的出色護理和成功手術表示最深切的謝意。 手術非常成功，我非常感謝您的專業知識和奉獻精神。

在我的治療過程中，您卓越的技能和對細節的關注顯而易見，在困難時期為我提供了極大的安慰和信心。手術的成功結果對我的康復產生了深遠的影響，我永遠感謝您的努力。

出院後，我被轉移到聖約翰康復中心，在那裡我花了兩週的時間進行康復。在住院和復原期間，我遇到了許多醫生、護士和工作人員，他們都非常友善和支持我。他們致力於讓患者在接受治療時有賓至如歸的感覺，這確實令人驚訝。

聖邁克爾醫院和聖約翰康復中心每個人的共同努力對我的康復發揮了至關重要的作用。我現在正在恢復健康，這要歸功於你們所有人對我的無微不至的照顧。

我藉此機會對我最近住院期間提供的醫療保險表示誠摯的謝意。您的支持確保我得到了必要的護理，而沒有額外的財務壓力，因為 Ohip 承擔了所有費用。您對患者福祉的承諾確實值得讚揚。

再次感謝霍華德金斯伯格醫生和神經外科團隊的出色工作和富有同情心的護理。

懷著衷心的讚賞，

David AU 

Dear Old Classmates

Dear Old Classmates of 1964,

I must begin by expressing my deepest appreciation to each and every one of you for organizing what I've heard was a truly unforgettable reunion dinner in Vancouver and the subsequent cruise gathering to Alaska. The effort and thoughtfulness put into planning such an event are nothing short of remarkable. I had been eagerly anticipating this reunion for years, counting down the days until I could reconnect with all of you and relive those cherished memories from our youth.

However, life sometimes has unexpected twists and turns, and I find myself unable to join you all as planned. Just a few months ago, I underwent a head surgery (subdural hematoma), a journey that has been both challenging and humbling. While I may not be able to be physically present with you, please know that my heart is there in spirit, cheering you all on from afar.

I am slowly on the road to recovery, buoyed by the love and support of my family and friends. Though I may not be able to partake in the festivities, I take solace in knowing that all of you are together, creating new memories and strengthening the bonds that have held us together for six decades.

As you embark on this cruise holiday, I want to extend my warmest wishes for a safe and joyous journey. May each moment be filled with laughter, camaraderie, and a deep appreciation for the enduring friendships that have stood the test of time. Treasure every sunset, every shared meal, and every story exchanged, for these are the moments that truly make life rich and meaningful.

Though I may be physically absent, please know that I am with you all in spirit, raising a toast to the incredible journey we've shared and the countless adventures that still lie ahead. Until we meet again, my dear friends, may you sail smoothly through the waters of life, guided by the enduring light of friendship and love.

With heartfelt gratitude and warmest regards,

David Au  

A Good Read from Internet | 懷念慈父 | A Tribute to a Loving Father

原文

年輕時保羅·安卡的歌曲並不是我的一杯茶，大家年紀大了（我們同年），再聽這首《爸爸》，卻引起了很多的共鳴，不知不覺地會想起自己已經離世四十五年的老爹。

山東人稱父親為爹，他來自榮成縣，年輕喪父，因為家鄉和家庭極度窮困，教育水平不高，最初行船謀生，婚後被英國人招募到香港當差，幹到五十多歲因中風退休。在記憶中他是一位慈父，從來不會責駡我們兄弟四人，可能因為我們在英華讀書時成績不錯，並無令父親頭痛的機會。

他的一生沒有甚麼高潮，也沒有甚麼嗜好，有時喝了一杯五加皮後會哼哼《四郎探母》的幾句（他年輕離鄉別井後也再沒有機會和母親相聚），當時我們年紀輕根本不明白這是人生最大的慘事。他在生的另外兩件事，卻令我永誌難忘。

在港大入學試放榜前，從來不向人低頭的老爹居然向一位飯店老板的同鄉請求，假如取錄了之後可否在學費方面加以援手，希望能夠解決昂貴醫科學費的問題。當然放榜後優異成績帶來的三個獎助學金，使這要求並無需要，但是我心中知道，慈父為了兒子的未來必定會向人低聲下氣，盡其所能。

另外一件事就是在大會堂舉行的醫科畢業典禮中，他整齊的西裝加上領帶，和面上所露驕傲的笑容，是我從來沒有見過的。如果你不太記得朱自清的《背影》，讓我告訴你：每年六月近父親節之時，我必定再看一次，讀後感觸良多，有時不自覺地淚流下來。朋友們，你也聽聽這首《Papa》罷，父親永遠站在你的身後，無怨無求，是你生命中最好的幫手！

 

A Tribute to a Loving Father

When I was young, Paul Anka's songs never really appealed to me. But now, as I've grown older, listening to his song "Papa" brings forth a deep sense of nostalgia and reminds me of my father, who passed away forty-five years ago.

In Shandong, people refer to their fathers as "Old Dad." My father was from Rongcheng County and lost his father when he was young. Due to the extreme poverty and limited educational opportunities in his hometown, he initially made a living by sailing. After getting married, he was recruited by the British to work as a policeman in Hong Kong. He worked there until he retired in his fifties following a stroke. In my memory, he was a loving father who never scolded us. Perhaps this was because we performed well academically at Yinghua and never caused him any trouble.

He didn't have any significant achievements or hobbies. Occasionally, he would hum a few lines from "Shiro Visits His Mother" after a drink of Wujiapi (he had left home at a young age and never reunited with his mother). At such a young age, I couldn't grasp that this was one of the greatest tragedies of his life. Two other incidents stand out in my memories of him.

Before the admission results for the Hong Kong University were announced, my father, who never asked for favors, approached a restaurant owner to inquire if he could help with my tuition fees if I was admitted. He was willing to humble himself to ensure my education, despite the financial burden of his medical expenses. Thankfully, my excellent results earned me three scholarships and bursaries, making this unnecessary. However, I understood that my father would have done anything for my future.

Another unforgettable moment was during my medical graduation ceremony at the city hall. Seeing him in a neat suit and tie, with a proud smile on his face, was a sight I had never seen before. If you don't quite recall Zhu Ziqing's "Back," let me tell you that every June, as Father's Day approaches, I read it again. It always moves me deeply, sometimes bringing me to tears.

Friends, listen to Paul Anka's "Papa." It reminds us that our fathers are always there, standing behind us without complaint or expectation, being our greatest supporters throughout life.

Father's Day | Celebration | Remembrance

 

Introduction

Father's Day is a special occasion that honors and celebrates the contribution and influence of fathers in our lives. It is a day dedicated to expressing gratitude, love, and appreciation for the paternal figures who have played a vital role in shaping our upbringing and providing guidance and support along the way.

History of Father's Day

The origin of Father's Day can be traced back to the early 20th century. It was inspired by the establishment of Mother's Day and the desire to have a similar day to commemorate fathers. The first recorded celebration of Father's Day took place in 1910 in Spokane, Washington when Sonora Smart Dodd wanted to honor her father, a Civil War veteran who raised her and her siblings single-handedly after their mother's death. The idea gradually gained recognition, and in 1972, President Richard Nixon officially declared Father's Day a national holiday in the United States.

Purpose of the Celebration

Father's Day serves as an opportunity to show appreciation for the role fathers play in the family and society. It is a day to recognize their love, sacrifices, and dedication. The celebration aims to strengthen the bond between fathers and their children, fostering mutual respect, and acknowledging the importance of paternal involvement in nurturing a child's well-being and development. Moreover, Father's Day encourages reflection on the valuable life lessons and guidance fathers impart to their children.

How People Celebrate Father's Day in North America Currently

In North America, Father's Day is celebrated with enthusiasm and creativity. Families come together to honor fathers and make them feel special. Common traditions include giving cards, gifts, or personalized items to express gratitude and love. Many people take their fathers out for meals at their favorite restaurants or prepare special home-cooked meals. Quality time spent with family, engaging in activities such as outdoor outings, sports, or hobbies, is also cherished. Additionally, some communities organize events or festivals dedicated to fathers, providing opportunities for shared celebrations and strengthening the sense of community.

How People Celebrate Father's Day in Asia

In Asia, the celebration of Father's Day varies across different countries and cultures. While the concept of Father's Day is relatively new in some regions, its significance is growing. Many Asian countries have embraced the Western traditions associated with Father's Day and adapted them to their own cultural contexts. In countries like Japan, China, and South Korea, it is common to give gifts such as ties, wallets, or personalized items to fathers. Family gatherings, special meals, and heartfelt messages are also part of the celebration. Some Asian cultures may have unique customs and rituals associated with honoring fathers, showcasing the diversity of traditions across the continent.

The Future Outlook of Father's Day

As society evolves, so does the celebration of Father's Day. In the future, Father's Day is likely to continue evolving and adapting to changing cultural dynamics. It will reflect the increasingly diverse roles fathers play in modern families, acknowledging different family structures and paternal figures. The celebration may become more inclusive, recognizing the contributions of stepfathers, adoptive fathers, and father figures from diverse backgrounds. Moreover, technological advancements may shape the way people celebrate, with virtual gatherings and innovative ways of expressing appreciation for fathers. Father's Day will remain a cherished occasion, symbolizing the importance of fatherhood and the enduring bond between fathers and their children.

Conclusion

Father's Day is a significant occasion that allows us to honor and appreciate the remarkable role fathers play in our lives. It is a time to express gratitude for their love, support, and guidance. Whether through heartfelt gestures, quality time spent together, or thoughtful gifts, Father's Day provides an opportunity to strengthen the bond between fathers and their children. As we celebrate this special day, let us cherish the memories, lessons, and values that fathers impart to us, and recognize their invaluable presence in our lives.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: When is Father's Day celebrated?

Father's Day is typically celebrated on the third Sunday of June in most countries, including the United States.

Q: Can Father's Day be celebrated in a non-traditional family setup?

Absolutely! Father's Day celebrates the paternal figures who play significant roles in a person's life, regardless of the family structure.

Q: Are there specific gifts associated with Father's Day?

While gifts may vary based on personal preferences, common Father's Day gifts include personalized items, gadgets, books, and experiences tailored to fathers' interests.

Q: Is Father's Day celebrated worldwide?

Father's Day is celebrated in many countries worldwide, although the dates and customs may differ.

Q: What is the significance of Father's Day?

Father's Day provides an opportunity to honor and appreciate fathers, celebrating their love, sacrifices, and influence in our lives.

A Good Read from the Internet | 奔八路上 | On the Road to 80 and Beyond

Reaching the age of 70 marks a significant milestone in life. From any perspective, those over 70 are regarded as elderly. At this stage, the beautiful sunset of life begins to dip below the horizon, signaling the twilight of an eventful journey. Official statistics reveal that only 44% of individuals make it past 70 and embark on the path toward 80.

The decade from 70 to 80 is arguably the most challenging phase of life, filled with many trials and tribulations. During this period, the aging process accelerates, with all bodily organs undergoing irreversible degeneration, much like a machine nearing the end of its useful life but still slowly operating.

This decade also marks a critical period for health, as the body’s immune system weakens and becomes more susceptible to diseases. Minor illnesses become a daily occurrence, while major health issues can arise unexpectedly. The body's slowed reactions and diminished limb flexibility increase the risk of accidents, such as dizziness, choking, collisions, and falls, each potentially carrying severe consequences.

Adding to these physical challenges is the emotional toll of losing contemporaries—relatives, friends, colleagues, and classmates. The social circle shrinks, leaving fewer confidants and increasing feelings of loneliness.

More concerning is the possibility of severe physical and cognitive decline, leading to hearing loss, memory problems, and even the inability to perform daily activities independently. This not only subjects individuals to prolonged suffering but also places a significant burden on their children.

Unpredictable events during this period can drastically alter one's life. Growing old is undeniably a tumultuous journey, as depicted in many classical operas that convey the bitterness and desolation of old age.

As I pen these reflections, my comrades, classmates, and I find ourselves navigating this arduous road to 80. Adopting a calmer mindset, fostering a positive spirit, reducing aspirations, lowering expectations, moving more deliberately, maintaining a steady pace, exercising regularly, and eating less become essential practices.

Some believe that reaching 70 and stepping onto the path toward 80 signifies a fortunate life, as more than half of one's peers have not made it this far. Reaching the age of 75 is considered an achievement, as it means you have traversed half of this challenging decade. At this point, fewer than a third of your peers remain alongside you, and you have reached the national average life expectancy. At this symbolic milestone, you can glimpse the end of life’s journey.

If you manage to persist and complete the journey to 80, you are deemed a true victor in life. You have reached the pinnacle of life’s climb, where you can reflect on your stormy journey with satisfaction. Beyond this, the goals of reaching 90 or 100 years old become secondary. You can choose to continue forward or rest, letting fate guide your remaining days.

In the dictionary of life, there is no more time to come. The only thing we can control is to not regret the past, not wager on the future, but cherish today and live each day to its fullest. 

(Original article is in Chinese)

原文

古稀之年是人生的一个重要节点，无论从哪个角度来说人过七旬也算是真正的老人了，至此绚丽的夕阳已接近地平线，多彩的人生亦近尾声。据官方的公开数据，在所有自然人中只有44％的人能跨过古稀的门坎，从而转身走在奔八的路上。

七十到八十这是人生最艰难的十年，是晚年生活的多事之秋。

这个区间要经受衰老的加速，各部器官都在不可逆转地退化和损耗，就象一台即将报废的机器还在缓慢运转。

这个期间是多种疾病的爆发期，由于人体免疫能力的降低和变异，再难有效抵御病菌病毒的侵袭，小病天天有，大病随时来已是常态现状。

这期间由于头脑反应减慢四肢不再灵活，头晕、噎呛、碰撞、摔跤等各种意外也会随时发生，而每一次意外都会带来难以承受的后果。

这期间还要经受失去亲朋、战友、同事、同学等同龄熟人的痛苦和悲伤，社交圈子越来越小，可倾诉的挚友越来越少，孤独寂寞感不断增加。

更危险的是这期间还会有一些人失聪失忆甚至失去自理能力，不但自己要忍受长期臥床的煎熬，也给子女增加了沉重负担。

这期间还会随时发生许多难以预料的事情，一件不经意的失误也能彻底改变你的人生。

谁的晚年都是一场血风睲雨，这绝不是危言耸听。

一曲老来难的古典戏曲道尽了老年人的辛酸凄凉。

当我写这些文字的时候我和我的战友、同学及许多朋友都已走在艰难的奔八路上，心态平一些，精神好一些，追求少一些，标准低一些，行动慢一些，步伐稳一些，锻炼多一些，吃饭少一些，都是我们应该遵守的行为准则。

有人说你能越过古稀踏在奔八的起跑线上你就是一个非常幸运的人，因为有一多半的同龄人已经掉队失去了奔八的资格。

如果你达到了75岁，那你就是一个人生赢家，因为最艰难的十年人生路你已行程过半，能和你比肩的同龄人绝对超不过三分之一，你的实际寿命已达到了全国平均预期生存年限的平均值。在这个里程碑式的加油站里，你只要抬脚翘首就可以隐约看到人生终点的那块标志牌了。

假如你一路坚持终于完成奔八的任务，那你就是一个人生十分完美的胜利者。因为你已经圆满到达攀登人生顶峰的大本营，可以躺平回味你的风雨人生路了。

接下来你可以对90岁、100岁那些缈茫的目标不屑一顾，随时随地可以决定前行或放弃，一切的一切都顺其自然、听天由命啦。

在我们的人生字典中已经没有了来日方长，我们唯一能够主宰的是：不悔昨天、不赌明天，珍惜今天，过好时下每一天。