Relying on Ourselves

In the journey of life, we often encounter situations where we need help and support. However, there are times when relying on others may not be enough, and we must learn to rely on ourselves. The phrase "求人不如求己，" which translates to "It's better to rely on oneself than on others," embodies this idea and serves as a reminder of the importance of self-reliance.

Self-reliance is a valuable trait that empowers individuals to take control of their lives. By relying on ourselves, we develop a sense of independence and confidence. We learn to solve problems, face challenges, and make decisions without constantly seeking external validation or help. This independence fosters personal growth and resilience, enabling us to overcome obstacles and achieve our goals.

In ancient times, two birds and their fledglings lived near a farm. Every morning and evening, the parents would go out to find food for their little ones. One day, when they brought the food home, the baby birds asked, "Where did you get this food from？" The parents replied, "We found it." The baby birds asked again, "But where did you find the food？" The parents answered, "We found it." This exchange highlights the importance of self-reliance, as the parents did not rely on others to provide for their offspring but instead found food themselves.

Similarly, in a shelter under the eaves, a man asked the Goddess of Mercy, "Take care of me, as I am a creature like you." The Goddess replied, "I will not pour rain on you because you have an umbrella； I will pour rain on you because you do not have an umbrella." This parable emphasizes that we cannot always rely on others to protect us from difficulties. Instead, we must learn to protect ourselves and be prepared to face challenges.

Relying on ourselves also means taking responsibility for our actions and decisions. It involves setting personal goals, working hard, and being persistent in achieving them. By relying on ourselves, we develop a sense of accountability and ownership of our lives. We learn to learn from our mistakes, adapt to change, and keep moving forward.

In conclusion, "求人不如求己" is a timeless lesson that reminds us of the importance of self-reliance. By relying on ourselves, we gain independence, confidence, and resilience. We learn to solve problems, face challenges, and make decisions without constantly seeking external validation or help. This self-reliance empowers us to take control of our lives and achieve our goals.