If wealth and glory are obtained through moral cultivation, it is like wild flowers growing in the natural environment, which will continue to multiply endlessly; if it is obtained through achievements, it is like bonsai growing in the garden, which will be seriously affected by a slight transplant; if it is obtained through privilege or even evil forces, it is like a flower in a glass bottle, which will wither and die soon because its roots are not deeply planted in the soil.
荣华富贵的显赫，假如是从道德修养中得来，那就如同生长在大自然环境中的野花，会不断繁殖绵延不绝；如果是从建功立业中得来，那就如同生长在花园中的盆景一般，只要稍微移植，花木的成长就会受到严重的影响；假如是靠特权，甚至恶势力得来，那就如同插在玻璃瓶中的花朵，由于根部并没有深植在土中，所以花的调谢枯萎指日可待。
《菜根谭·富贵名誉 来自道德》 洪应明
富贵名誉，自道德来者，如山林中花，自是舒徐繁衍；自功业来者，如盆槛中花，便有迁徙兴废；若以权力得者，如瓶钵中花，其根不植，其萎可立而待矣。
If a man’s wealth, rank and reputation spring from the cultivation of lofty virtue, they are like wild flowers growing profusely in the mountains and forests; they will flourish naturally and freely. If they are a result of his accomplishments, they are like flowers cultivated in flowerpots or growing on wooden frames; they have a time to bloom and a time to wither. If they are the fruits of naked power, they are like flowers placed in vases and bowls; their roots are not deeply planted, and they will fade away in no time.
