What is morality? The term "morality" in Chinese can be traced back to the *Tao Te Ching*, written by the ancient philosopher Lao Tzu. "Tao" refers to the universal truth governing nature and human affairs; while "De" refers to human virtue, conduct, and the way of the king. Since ancient times, China has valued virtue, considering it the foundation of one's character. Morality often represents the positive values of society. From a human perspective, morality is a principle of being responsible for one's actions and not harming others.
As individuals, we not only need rich cultural knowledge but also an understanding of how to be a good person. As the Italian poet Dante said, "A person lacking knowledge can compensate with morality, but a person lacking morality cannot compensate with knowledge."
So, how can we become truly moral and cultivated individuals? For us middle school students, attentively listening in class, quietly studying during self-study, and independently and efficiently completing homework after class are the good study habits we have cultivated over time. Furthermore, "patriotism and law-abidingness, civility and integrity, unity and friendliness, diligence and self-reliance, dedication and contribution" should be the basic moral standards of every citizen.
Let me share a story with you: A Singaporean tour group was sightseeing in Germany. Among them was a twelve-year-old boy who bought a small toy in a store. While unpacking it, since there was no trash can nearby, he habitually put the wrapper in his pocket. That wrapper stayed in the boy's pocket for two weeks before finally being brought back to Singapore.
Although the plot of this story isn't particularly vivid or the scene particularly moving, it deeply touched me and made me think for a long time. This boy, though young, had already deeply rooted the flower of morality in his heart.
In fact, morality is very close to us, so close that it's within our reach, because it's in our daily lives. For example, we should turn off the dripping faucet in the bathroom when we need it; wipe away the clearly visible shoe prints on the wall; stop casually tossing trash out the window; and refrain from using foul language towards those around us, instead letting civilized and kind words resonate. At home, we should be filial to our parents. Perhaps our busy studies and work don't allow us much time to help with housework, but a greeting at the dinner table, a cup of tea after a meal, or a blessing on a holiday can all make our parents feel our love.
Sometimes, our kindness may not be reciprocated, and may even be met with ridicule and mockery. But we must never give up our efforts to be kind because of the unkindness of some people. Because we cannot decide what others think, but we can decide what we do.
In a person's life, the beauty or ugliness of their thoughts almost determines everything. Therefore, we often say that morality is a kind of beauty, and even more so, a kind of wisdom. Let us fully display, share, and promote it. Be a moral person, and let morality shape your life!
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