I had long dreamed  of visiting  Qufu, the birthplace of Confucius. This year when I  finally crossed the threshold  of  the Confucius Temple, I did not expect to find such deep devotion, so many people making offerings, asking for blessings, and paying their respects.

The temple was filled with Chinese families, and yet, despite the crowds, there was a peaceful atmosphere.

Some  people could be seen deep in reflection, absorbed in their thoughts.

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in Confucianism not only in China but also in other parts of the world. His philosophy of life and moral values has inspired generations, encouraging people to apply his teachings to every aspect of their lives.

Here are some of my favourite Confucius quotes:

• Everything has beauty, but not everyone sees it.
• What the superior man seeks is in himself, what the small man seeks is in others.
• It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop.
• When it is obvious that the goals cannot be reached, don’t adjust the goals, adjust the action steps.
• When anger rises, think of the consequences.
• Do not impose on others what you yourself do not desire. 
• Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.
• Respect yourself, and others will respect you.
• Wherever you go, go with all your heart.

I stand by this last quote whenever I travel. I think we can all identify with his teachings. It is wonderful to think that words spoken thousands of years ago remain so relevant today and continue to offer guidance and wisdom to so many people.

Confucianism has long shaped the rhythm of Chinese life, offering a moral compass for both the individual and the community. At its heart is the family. Loyalty, respect and  duty, are passed between generations.

Equally important is the pursuit of education. Confucius taught that learning cultivates virtue and benefits the whole community, a belief reflected in the strong cultural emphasis on studying diligently and striving for success.

Above all, Confucius envisioned harmony within the family, between people, and in the order of society, a pursuit that still resonates as China balances its ancient traditions with the challenges of modern life.

Being in the Confucius Temple reminded me of Iran and the devotion to poets like Saadi and Hafiz. Still today, crowds visit their graves in Shiraz, reciting their poems and asking for guidance. Although I don’t speak Farsi, I was deeply moved to hear those verses read with such passion, sometimes even through tears.

During Nowruz and Yalda night, it is customary for Iranians to open a book of Hafiz’s poetry at a random page, seeking direction for the future. Even in the bazaars of Tehran, you may find someone carrying Hafiz poems in sealed envelopes which people choose randomly, hoping to find guidance inside.

What struck me in both Qufu and Shiraz is that wisdom, whether in the form of Confucius’s teachings or Hafiz and Saadi’s poetry, transcends time and language. The human search for meaning, guidance, and reflection has not changed. Teachings written thousands of years ago can still speak to our hearts, reminding us of universal truths that continue to shape our lives today.