If I can learn from all those in the world who criticize me and thereby improve myself, they will all be polishing and correcting me. In that case, everywhere is the opportunity for me to be alert, to cultivate and examine myself, and to advance in virtue. An ancient philosopher said, “Those who attack my shortcomings are my teachers.” Should we dislike teachers?
–Wang Yang-ming, Instructions for Practical Living and Other Neo-Confucian Writings, Translated, with Notes, by Wing-tsit Chan, 130
Title refers to Buddhist Lojong Slogan #13.
