There was this other quote though that I don't necessarily agree with: "The wise take joy in rivers, while the Good take joy in mountains. The wise are active, while the Good are still. The wise are joyful, while the Good are long-lived." (6.23)
It wasn't really specified whether it was better to be Good than to be wise, but from what I've read so far there is an inclination towards Good. I can now define Good people or gentlemen as a person in control of his actions, swallowing harmful pride, remaining noble, and completely respectful towards the rest. Somehow like the following quotes:
"Do not be concerned that no one has heard of you, but rather strive to become a person worthy of being known." (4.15)
When are we really worth of being known? This can be seen in many different ways because this reminded me of reality TV stars that promote themselves in desperate and trashy ways in order to be famous. A notorious example: Speidi. So to strive to be known, known must be in an orderly way and less ludicrous methods used by Z-listers. You can become worthy of being known...in a bad way.
"When you see someone who is worthy, concentrate upon becoming their equal; when you see someone who is unworthy, use this as an opportunity to look within yourself." (4.17)
If you see a good example, follow it. If you see a bad example, stay away from it.
"The gentleman understands rightness, whereas the petty person understands profit." (4.16)
Leaving money matters aside, what is morally right? If it's not, don't take the profit.
"People in ancient times were not eager to speak, because they would be ashamed if their actions did not measure up to their words." (4.22)
I think this is a hidden fear everyone must have. Where will I go to college? Are expectations for me a little too high? Am I doing things right? So people would much rather stay quiet than disappoint or even lie.
"At first, when evaluating people, I would listen to their words and then simply trust that the corresponding conduct would follow. Now when I evaluate people I listen to their words but then closely observe their conduct." (5.10)
Closely related to the quote above, people say many things. Like all the personeros at school that once promised the primary kids a water park in school just so that they would get a vote. They wouldn't know that the chances of that happening are absolutely far-fetched. Actions speak louder than words.
"When native substance overwhelms cultural refinement, the result is a crude rustic. When cultural refinement overwhelms native substance, the result is a foppish pedant. Only when culture and native substance are perfectly mixed and balanced do you have a gentleman."(6.18)
Usually when you think of someone confident and successful in life, you usually think of this person who thinks too highly of himself and thinks he is admired. What we are being told here, is that in order to be admired and appreciated you have to be subtle and being arrogant is not the way. You have to be the complete opposite of arrogance.
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