The decay of a state is often because the third of the Up-Down Four Questions was not addressed well; those above and below are blinded by short-term interests and emotions, turning a blind eye to the growth of tumors until they lack the capacity to contain them and end up buried alongside them.

The bankruptcy of a firm is often because the first of the Up-Down Four Questions was not addressed well; understanding of the market is too superficial, and there is too much numbness toward environmental changes. They fail to grasp what those above actually need, either failing to act when they should or acting blindly when they shouldn't. They appear busy but are actually neglecting their proper work, wasting precious time and money.

A child’s rebellion is often because the second of the Up-Down Four Questions was not addressed well; a child's only task is all-around natural growth. As the superior, instead of providing a stable environment and rich choices, they engage in constant control, criticism, and intimidation, which only leads to rebellion—the child remains filial.

#生道