The Donkey Envying the Horse
A weak and tired donkey looked with envy at a warhorse with ornate saddles and abundant fodder. The donkey sighed "I wish I were saddled like this valuable horse, taken special care of, and freed from carrying heavy loads." Finally a war broke out; the warhorse was equipped with armor and driven to the front lines of the battle. When the war ended, the donkey saw the horse wounded by arrows, groaning in blood, and crippled.
Changing his attitude, the donkey said "Behind that appetite-whetting grandeur was such a heavy ordeal; living free with my simple load is better." Those who envy the lives and positions of others that look bright from the outside do not see the heavy responsibilities and dangers brought by those positions. A simple and peaceful life is much safer than dangerous pomp. Being content with one's own state and not succumbing to unnecessary envies is the condition of peace.
Do not envy the grandeur of others, do not long without seeing the ordeal behind it. What looks bright from the outside may be ordealed inside. Being grateful for one's own state brings peace. Envying dangerous pomp is a disaster.
Do not be deceived by appearance and long for it. Simple life is dangerous-free. Contentment is the greatest wealth.