The Wisdom of Adaptation: “When Deep, Wade Through; When Shallow, Lift Your Skirts”

A recluse advised Confucius, quoting an old saying: “In deep water, wade through; in shallow water, lift your clothes.”

Deep water must be crossed with the clothes on; shallow water may be crossed with the clothes held up.

深则厉,浅则揭。

Source: The Analects, Xian Wen XIV, Chapter 39 (Cited by a recluse)

Origin: The Book of Songs

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