The human heart is like a fine seedling; it grows only when properly nourished.

The human heart is like a fine seedling; it grows only when properly nourished.

A seedling flourishes with spring water; the heart thrives on reason and virtue.

Go a day without reading, and your thoughts grow dull.

Go a month without reading, and your senses lose their sharpness.

人心如良苗，得养乃滋长。  

苗以泉水灌，心以理义养。  

一日不读书，胸臆无佳想。  

一月不读书，耳目失精爽。

~ Xiao Lunwei (萧抡谓), Qing Dynasty Poet, from "Reflections from Reading" (《读书有所见作》)