Shawn answers “what is the meaning of "the man who moves...”

Madelene asked this question about The Analects:

what is the meaning of "the man who moves a mountain begins by carrying stones"?

Shawn Methinks: If one endeavors to move a mountain, the same one must also be endeavoring to establish a mountain, as the materials must be deposited somew…moreMethinks: If one endeavors to move a mountain, the same one must also be endeavoring to establish a mountain, as the materials must be deposited somewhere. Hence, the new mountain must be appropriately planned, well located, and have an appropriate stone foundation. By analogy, we should not tear down big things without a plan. We should not topple governments unless we have a plan for their resurrection. We should not destroy anything of necessity without first considering how we will replace it or what we will do with the refuse. (less)

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