Summarize this text in 200 or more words and include thoughts
Heaven has abandoned China owing to its haughtiness and extravagant luxury. But I, living in the
northern wilderness, have not inordinate passions. I hate luxury and exercise moderation. I have only
one coat and one food. I eat the same food and am dressed in the same tatters as my humble
herdsmen. I consider the people my children, and take an interest in talented men as if they were my
brothers.... At military exercises I am always in the front, and in time of battle am never behind. In the
space of seven years I have succeeded in accomplishing a great work, and uniting the whole world into
one empire. I have not myself distinguished qualities. But the government of the [Chinese] is inconstant,
and therefore Heaven assists me to obtain the throne....
All together have acknowledged my supremacy. It seems to me that since the remote time... such an
empire has not been seen.... Since the time I came to the throne I have always taken to heart the ruling
of my people; but I could not find worthy men to occupy [high offices]....With respect to these
circumstances I inquired, and heard that thou, master, hast penetrated the truth.... For a long time thou
has lived in the caverns of the rocks, and hast retired from the world; but to thee the people who have
acquired sanctity repair, like clouds on the paths of the immortals, in innumerable multitudes.... But
what shall I do? We are separated by mountains and plains of great extent, and I cannot meet thee. I
can only descend from the throne and stand by the side. I have fasted and washed. I have ordered my
adjutant... to prepare an escort and a cart for thee.
Do not be afraid of the thousand li (a great distance). I implore thee to move thy sainted steps. Do not
think of the extent of the sandy desert. Commiserate the people in the present situation of affairs, or
have pity upon me, and communicate to me the means of preserving life. I shall serve thee myself. I
hope that at least thou wilt leave me a trifle of thy wisdom. Say only one word to me and I shall be
happy
The text presents the perspective of an individual, possibly a Chinese leader, who reflects on the abandonment of Heaven from China due to haughtiness and excessive luxury. This individual, residing in the wilderness, contrasts themselves with the luxury-loving society by living a modest and humble life. Despite lacking distinguished qualities, they have managed to unite the world into one empire and establish supremacy over all. Acknowledging a lack of worthy individuals to govern, they seek counsel from a hermit living in seclusion in the mountains.
The text portrays a sense of humility, longing for wisdom and guidance from someone believed to possess great insight and sanctity. The individual expresses a willingness to go to great lengths, even traversing vast distances, to seek the wisdom and counsel of the hermit. The sincerity and desperation in the individual's plea for guidance create a poignant and introspective tone in the text.
Overall, the text conveys the themes of humility, seeking wisdom, and the challenges of leadership and governance. It highlights the importance of humility, moderation, and a sense of duty towards the people in positions of power and authority. The individual's willingness to learn and seek guidance showcases a sense of self-awareness and a desire to improve and govern justly.