See Plainness, Embrace Simplicity, Lessen Selfishness and Desire

📝The Classic Answers

Laozi said to show the undyed silk and embrace the uncarved block, and to lessen selfishness and desire. A life filled with splendor is not therefore a good life. In a mansion ringed by deep walls, people take aim at one another over a single red lantern that signifies favor. Comfort adorned with silk and lanterns eases the body, yet the more one is trained to its rules, the less power one keeps to break free. The deeper one goes into splendor chasing desire, the finer the yoke that binds. To return to plainness is not the destitution of throwing away what one has, but the freedom of loosening oneself from the yoke that splendor has fastened. I first consider what I am being trained to while enjoying what I enjoy, and whether that splendor frees me or confines me.