China and the West

Letter from Benjamin B. Wiley to Henry David Thoreau, Providence Oct 31, 1856
…I am anxious to know a little more of Confucius. Can you briefly, so that it will not take too much of your time, write me his views in regard to Creation, Immortality, man's preexistence if he speaks of it, and generally anything relating to man's Origin, Purpose, & Destiny.

Letter from Henry David Thoreau to Benjamin B. Wiley, concord Dec 12 '56
…I do not now remember anything which Confucius has said directly respecting man's 'origin, purpose, and destiny'. He was more practical than that. He is full of wisdom applied to human relations – to the private Life – the Family – Government &c. It is remark able that according to his own account the sum & substance of his teaching is, as you know, to Do as you would be done by.
He also said – (I translate from the French) "Conduct yourself suitably toward the persons of your family, then you will be able to instruct and to direct a nation of men".
"To nourish ones self with a little rice, to drink water, to have only his bended art to support his head, is a state which has also its satisfaction. To be rich and honored by iniquitous means, is for me as the floating cloud which passes".
"As soon as a child is born we must respect its faculties ; the knowledge which will come to it by & by does not resemble at all ist present state. If it arrives at the age of 40 or 50 years, withoug laving learned any thing, it is no more worthy of any respect".
This last, I think, will speak to your condition…