KEEP THE OLD WARM

Zilu said: ‘If the Lord of Wei were waiting for you to run the government, what would you give priority to?’ The Master said: “What is necessary is to rectify names, is it not?’ Zilu said: ‘If this were to take place, it would surely be an aberration of yours. Why should they be rectified? The Master said: ‘How uncivilized you are, with regard to what he does not understand the gentleman is surely somewhat reluctant to offer an opinion. If names are not rectified, then deeds are not accomplished. If deeds are not accomplished, the the rites and music do not flourish. if the rites and music do not flourish, then punishments do not hit the mark. If punishments do not hit the mark, then the people have nowhere to put hand or foot. So when a gentleman names something, the name can definitely be used in speech; and when he says something, it can definitely be put into practice. In his utterances the gentleman is definitely not casual about anything.’ – 子 Master Kong (Confucius) The Analects 13:3

If we set our words right, we progress.

With correct words comes balance in confrontation.

We show honor and respect.

We do not begin with judgement.

But neutral to the other.

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This promises social progress and democratic spirit. We will prove democracy works with millions of people.

But without this building block of wise speech and trust in each other,

All is fickle, and all is lost.

Rectify our words. Restore honor.

And kindle a fire.