You’ve left home too soon:
Drunks frighten you, profligates paw you.
What good is a hermit’s jewel?
Young people need compassion and guidance, not obscure mysticism. Here are some guidelines for young people :
Remember that you are always your own person. Do not surrender your mind, heart, or body to any person. Never compromise your dignity for any reason.
Maintain your health with sound diet, hygiene, exercise, and clean living. Don’t engage in drugs or drinking.
Money is never more important that your body and mind, but you must work and support yourself. Never depend on others for your livelihood.
Choose your friends and living situation carefully, for they will influence you. Find a mentor you can trust, one who can answer your every question, but never give up responsibility for your own life. No one lives your life for you.
A good education is always an asset.
Emotions are transitory and are not a good way to make decisions.
Every day, you must make decisions. Everything you do will have irrevocable effects upon your life. Before you go down any path, consider carefully. Rivers very rarely reverse course.
Know evil, but do not do evil yourself. Remember, there is a way out of the delusions of life. When you weary of the world, find someone who will show you Tao.
