Chapter 3.

Kong Zi said, "Artful speech and an ingratiating demeanor rarely accompany virtue."

First of all, I want to skip over this chapter.  I glance at it and feel it is far too simple.  The Truth of course, is that I am the world's greatest car salesman.  I speak artfully and can be the world's biggest brown nose.  The flip side of that is if I an tone it down, say at Eat or with my seniors whom I respect (KB & EC), I can actually have loyalty and propriety. 

I saw some good signs of progress last night when, while making noodles, I was successfully able to RESTRAIN myself from speaking.  I don't remember exactly what I wanted to say, but watching Alain try to really overcompensate this week, I recognized this shortcoming in myself.  People tolerate it in me and him because we are sincere.  But at that moment, I felt like I grew up a little.  Seems like a wise person should be able to decide when he speaks and what comes out of his mouth.  I have failed a few other times (telling Jordan about the garlic lack in the soup) but at least I feel I am on the right road again.

Again I remind myself of the person that I want to be.  What a man needs.  Solid.  Quiet.  Strong.  Stable.  I don't need to push myself this year.  Simply set quiet PR's in all aspects of my life.  Do the right thing, be calm in my heart and trust Heaven.  I'm not in charge, and scrambling for advantage or trying to manipulate to maintain position only make me look bad.  Humble, humble, humble.  Gotta have the faith to continue twelve dollars a day. (That reminds me to appreciate and respect the shmoo even more. She is an excellent pair for me.)  Stop here.