Read Together
Two lines a day. Ask one question. Find one connection to life.
具膳餐饭，适口充肠。
Prepare meals and rice; eat what suits the taste and fills the belly.
Simple food shared with family is the root of daily happiness.
Parent note: Make mealtime a ritual — light a candle, share thanks before eating.
饱饫烹宰，饥厌糟糠。
When full, enjoy fine dishes; when hungry, even husks and chaff seem good.
Gratitude teaches us not to waste, whether in plenty or in want.
Parent note: Invite children to try a “gratitude bite” — say thanks for each bite before chewing.
亲戚故旧，老少异粮。
Relatives, old friends, young and old — all need different food suited to their age.
Caring means noticing different needs.
Parent note: Ask: what foods are healthy for kids vs. grandparents? Make a chart together.
妾御绩纺，侍巾帷房。
Women wove and spun, attending to cloth and curtains at home.
Every family member has chores that keep the household running.
Parent note: Give kids one “helping job” each week and praise their effort.
纨扇圆洁，银烛炜煌。
Silk fans round and pure, silver candles burning bright.
Home life had its small beauties and comforts.
Parent note: Ask: what object at home feels beautiful or comforting to you?
昼眠夕寐，蓝笋象床。
Napping by day, resting at night; bamboo mats and elephant‑carved beds.
Rest is as important as work for health and harmony.
Parent note: Create a calming bedtime routine — reading, soft music, dim light.
弦歌酒宴，接杯举觞。
Songs and strings at a feast, raising cups in turn.
Celebration strengthens bonds among family and friends.
Parent note: Family night idea — music, a simple toast with juice, and shared laughter.
笃初诚美，慎终宜令。
Being sincere at the beginning is beautiful; being careful to the end is fitting.
Goodness means starting well and finishing well.
Parent note: Ask: what project did you finish well? What could we finish better next time?
Parent Prompts
- What family rituals make meals special?
- What’s one way to show gratitude for food?
- What chores or jobs make our home run smoothly?
- Why is it important to finish what we start?