I will always walk composed, with light and even steps. I will always stand up straight and tall. My bows will always be deep, with hands held in front and arms rounded. I will always pay my respect with reverence.23 I will not step on doorsills or stand leaning on one leg. I will not sit with my legs apart or sprawled out. I will not rock the lower part of my body while standing or sitting down.
I will always lift the curtain slowly,24 and quietly. I must leave myself ample space when I turn so I will not bump into a corner. I will hold empty containers carefully as if they were full.25 I will enter empty rooms as if they were occupied.26 I will avoid doing things in a hurry, as doing things in haste will lead to many mistakes. I should not be afraid of difficult tasks, and I will not become careless when a job is too easy. I will keep away from rowdy places. I will not ask about things that are abnormal or unusual.
23 Bai“拜”means paying respect. In ancient China, people paid their respect to others by bowing, holding one hand over the other which is closed, or prostrating themselves on the ground.
24 In ancient China, curtains were made of bamboo strips woven together. They were used to shelter a room from view.
25 Even if a container is empty, out of reverence to things whether living or not, one should treat it with respect and handle it with care.
26 In ancient China, a virtuous man always behaved properly, regardless of whether he was alone or with others.