When the young needed guidance, the ancients would show, not lecture. They would take their students to the mountains and show them a pine tree.

No matter what the weather, the pine would stand bold and proud. Its nature was faithful, its branches solid and ever green. When rains poured down, water trickled off the needles, drops lingering like shining diamonds. When flooding came, the pine held fast with tenacious roots. And when the sun flared, the pine’s needles did not shrivel, but provided shade impartially to all who came to its shelter.

The ancients urged their students to stand like a pine. To remain rooted loyally to family, friends, and ideals. To be unafraid of acting openly and honestly. To be of lofty character, and as steady as the pine – always.