My Refined Life

 　　Having lived a life of tranquility and contentment since birth, I have never harbored any improper desires, thus enjoying a life

　　of serene elegance, like a gentle breeze and a bright moon. Only those without improper desires can have a life of elegance, their hearts purified into crystal-clear jade. For

　　over 30 years, I worked without ever taking advantage of others. After retiring, I maintain a peaceful mind, staying at home, cooking, washing clothes, doing housework, caring for my elders, enjoying my grandchildren, and politely declining all kinds of gatherings and banquets. I prepare all my meals myself, simple and plain, keeping me away from high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and high blood sugar, and maintaining good physical and mental health. I never go to the hair salon for perms or hair treatments; I cut my own hair. I don't buy expensive clothes from high-end boutiques; I tailor and sew my own clothes. My homemade garments are breathable and comfortable.

　　In my leisure time, I brew myself a cup of tea, pick up a book, and savor the aroma of tea and the fragrance of the book. I even applaud and cheer for the wonderful passages in the book, and am moved to tears by those touching details. Sometimes, listening to a piece of music brings a sense of tranquility; sometimes, reciting "Picking chrysanthemums by the eastern fence" refreshes the mind; sometimes, writing elegant words brings a sense of peace, the whole body and mind immersed in the joy of typing, and those restless thoughts are sorted out. In the evening, I bathe my grandson, recite Tang and Song poems with him, and listen to him tell fairy tales vividly... His heavenly voice cleanses my heart, making it even purer and clearer. I also pedaled my pedicab more than 100 times, hauling away the construction waste piled up against the wall, which was as high as the wall itself, and planted pumpkins and loofahs. The elegant environment and the green walls make me feel refreshed and happy. How wonderful

　　it is to have a pure heart and live an elegant life!

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