Read Together
Two lines a day. Ask one question. Find one connection to life.
升阶纳陛，弁转疑星。
Ascending steps and receiving at the hall; the caps of officials shine like stars.
Court life was ordered, with ranks as visible as constellations.
Parent note: Compare: what uniforms or badges show order in our lives (school, sports)?
右通广内，左达承明。
To the right lay the inner palace; to the left, the bright hall.
Structures of court showed clear divisions of duty and respect.
Parent note: Ask: what divisions of space at home help us stay organized?
既集坟典，亦聚群英。
Gathering the classics of old, assembling heroes and wise men.
The court valued both books and people of talent.
Parent note: Library + friends = wisdom and community. Ask kids: what’s more fun, learning alone or together?
杜稿钟隶，漆书壁经。
Calligraphy styles of Du and Zhong, lacquered writing, scriptures on walls.
Beautiful writing was a treasure, art joined with knowledge.
Parent note: Try copying a favorite word in your best handwriting; display it at home.
府罗将相，路侠槐卿。
The offices filled with generals and ministers; the road lined with noble officials.
Governance required many roles working together.
Parent note: Draw a “team map” — who are the helpers in our community?
户封八县，家给千兵。
A noble household might rule eight counties and supply a thousand soldiers.
With privilege came great responsibility to protect and provide.
Parent note: Talk: what responsibilities come with privileges at home or school?
高冠陪辇，驱毂振缨。
High‑capped officials accompanied the carriage; chariots rattled, tassels swayed.
Shows the pomp and ceremony of official duties.
Parent note: Watch a parade together — ask: what do ceremonies teach us?
世禄侈富，车驾肥轻。
Generations of salary made for luxury and wealth; carriages grew fat and light.
Comfort can breed carelessness if not balanced with gratitude.
Parent note: Ask: what’s the difference between “want” and “need”? How can we stay grateful?
Parent Prompts
- What uniforms or symbols show order in our daily lives?
- Why are both books and people important for wisdom?
- What ceremonies or traditions teach us lessons?
- How can we balance comfort with gratitude?