Read Together
Two lines a day. Ask one question. Find one connection to life.
度德而处，量力而行。
Act in a way that matches your virtue; do things according to your strength.
This teaches self‑awareness: know yourself before making choices.
Parent note: Encourage children to choose challenges that stretch but don’t overwhelm them.
任贤使能，顺时听形。
Entrust the worthy and employ the capable; follow the times and respond to circumstances.
Leaders succeed by recognizing others’ gifts and adjusting to reality.
Parent note: At home, practice noticing each family member’s strengths and letting them lead in that area.
俊乂密勿，多士寔宁。
Talented and diligent people working together bring peace and stability.
A community thrives when many contribute responsibly.
Parent note: Point out examples of teamwork — in sports, school, or chores — and how it brings harmony.
晋楚更霸，赵魏困横。
In the Warring States, Jin and Chu took turns dominating; Zhao and Wei were troubled by wars.
History shows cycles of power and conflict.
Parent note: Use this to discuss conflict vs. cooperation. Ask: how do we solve problems without fighting?
假途灭虢，践土会盟。
One state borrowed passage to destroy another; rulers met to form alliances.
Strategy can be clever but also dangerous if trust is broken.
Parent note: Talk about honesty. Ask: why is keeping promises important in friendship?
何遵约法，韩弊烦刑。
Some states followed simple laws; others, like Han, suffered from harsh punishments.
Fair rules build order; excessive punishment breeds fear.
Parent note: Relate to house rules — why simple, clear rules are better than many harsh ones.
起翦颇牧，用军最精。
Generals like Bai Qi, Lian Po, and Zhao She led highly skilled armies.
Their success came from discipline and training.
Parent note: Highlight practice and preparation — whether in sports, music, or schoolwork — as the path to success.
宣威沙漠，驰誉丹青。
Their fame spread across deserts; their names were recorded in history and painting.
True achievement leaves a mark remembered by later generations.
Parent note: Ask: what small good deeds could we do today that might be remembered tomorrow?
Parent Prompts
- What is one strength you have, and how do you use it well?
- How can we as a family adjust when things change suddenly?
- What teamwork example have you seen recently?
- Why are clear and fair rules better than harsh ones?