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玉不琢,不成器

yù bù zhuó, bù chéng qì
Spare the rod and spoil the child / No pain, no gain

Jade not carved, cannot become a vessel

This means that without discipline, training, and hardship, ...

This means that without discipline, training, and hardship, a person cannot reach their full potential. It emphasizes the necessity of effort and education to develop character and skill.

This is a classic Confucian proverb that highlights the importance of education and self-cultivation. Jade is a highly valued stone in Chinese culture, symbolizing purity and excellence, but it requires polishing to reveal its beauty.

Someone might say this when a parent is too lenient with their child, or when encouraging a student to work harder despite difficulties.

This saying reinforces the cultural value placed on hard work and discipline. It serves as a motivational tool, reminding people that success and moral character are not innate but are forged through rigorous effort and sometimes suffering.

#wisdom #hard-times #patience

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