Risk and Reward: Unravelling the True Meaning of “Fortune Favors the Brave.”

The saying, "Risk lies in the pursuit of wealth and fame," encapsulates an irrefutable truth. Bear in mind that "Fu Gui" ("富貴" in Chinese), a term surpassing the mere concept of wealth and fame, inevitably carries intrinsic risks. Some may question: What of those born with golden spoons in their mouths? What you might not realize is that their life's assignments have been significantly more complex from birth, with countless hidden tripwires. For instance, from a young age, they must constantly be on guard against deceitful individuals and often bear burdens they can't share with others.

Some people are simply predestined to experience significant peaks and valleys in life. If your astrological chart indicates such fluctuations, it not only signifies your inherent abilities but also your extraordinary resilience. Indeed, only those endowed with remarkable capabilities, like Cher Wang, can truly navigate such dramatic shifts. Although external circumstances can trigger these precipitous changes, personal judgment often steers the ultimate course. Regardless of their status, everyone, including those seemingly thriving amidst wealth and fame, is subject to these oscillations. Their journey is rarely as serene and steady as one might imagine.

Why is it important to emphasize the deep truth that "fortune favors the brave"? Some individuals believe that with self-love, self-healing, and the pursuit of passions, life will naturally yield effortless wealth and abundance. Others, those intrigued by spiritual work, aspire to be steered by their higher selves towards both prosperity and self-realization. However, this is merely one side of the coin. The flip side is this: without the foundation of wisdom, you're inadequately equipped for the "wealth" you seek. Take the fascinating performances of Faye Wong as an example—do you suppose she achieved her prominence without effort? Have you considered the intricate political maze she must navigate behind the scenes, and the unseen challenges she continually confronts? Having musical talent, while ignoring other pivotal facets, is far from enough to guarantee enduring success.

The adage "From common grain spring diverse minds" reflects the myriad challenges faced by Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva, as countless individuals' approach with their unique desires. Amidst this sea of diverse yearnings, Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva seeks to enlighten and guide all with the principles of "letting go" and "being present". But can Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva truly withstand these multifarious demands? It is the grandeur of the temple and renowned reputation that attracts many. Thus, Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva must also strive to augment this influence, for would you not lose interest otherwise? Hence, in the mission to save all sentient beings, Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva must continually cultivate wisdom, endeavoring to understand the complexities of human nature and worldly affairs.

Some argue, "I don't want wealth and universal respect, nor do I carry the burden of guiding others. My spiritual journey is about letting go, a quest I choose to pursue in the solitude of the mountain wilderness." But here's the reality check: the mountain landscapes and roadside fruit trees are owned—you can't simply dwell there or eat freely. To survive in this highland sanctuary, you must still comprehend the pragmatic intricacies of the world. Imagine this: you're paying $5,000 monthly for a peaceful retreat. But when land prices soar due to speculation, your landlord doubles the rent. How would you navigate that situation?

There are those who long for the good old days, saying: "The ancients roamed boundlessly within mountain wilds, where the terrain teemed in abundance and trees bore fruit with unstinting bounty." But amidst these spiritual journeys, they encountered fierce foes – tigers and bears. Life teetered on a knife-edge, survival hinged on wisdom. Therefore, when striving to "let go," one needs the aptitude not only to "discern" and "accept," but ultimately to "embrace" the essence of the present. Lacking wisdom, the task of holding onto what truly matters can become a formidable challenge... and the fallout, catastrophic. Can you grasp it? There was a news report about an aspiring monk, whose entire kin, brandishing kitchen knives and charging in a truck, stormed the temple, demanding his return.

Whether you strive to ascend life's heights or choose to revel in life's simplicity, wisdom is a prerequisite to navigating our life on Earth. However, finding peace within the realms of prosperity is unquestionably a daunting task. Consequently, the profound essence of "fortune favors the brave" is not to provoke individuals to recklessly strive for wealth and fame. Instead, it underscores the need for those in the echelons of wealth and fame to deeply comprehend that such a position requires pliability to withstand diverse challenges, much like conquering the tempest of stormy seas.

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Note

Cher Wang 王雪紅

Cher Wang, born in 1958 in New Taipei City, is the daughter of Wang Yung-Ching (also called YC Wang, was an entrepreneur who founded a large business empire in Taiwan, The Formosa Plastics Corporation). In 1982, she ventured into the PC industry and co-founded VIA Technologies and HTC, guiding these companies through tumultuous times. In 2005, HTC ascended to the position of the most valuable stock in Taiwan, and its market value reached its zenith. This success made Wang the wealthiest woman in Asia. However, post-2014, HTC's share price plummeted, with over nine hundred billion in market value vanishing. In 2015, Wang pivoted to investing in virtual reality, hoping to rejuvenate her business. Unfortunately, her endeavors have yet to bear fruit to this day.

https://zh.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E7%8E%8B%E9%9B%AA%E7%B4%85

Fayer Wong 王菲

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Faye_Wong

中文原文