To lament or observe that an individual's worth, potential, or character is largely determined by their environment and the choices they make in life, emphasizing the influence of self-positioning.
Era:
Ancient
Frequency:
Story:
During the Warring States period, Li Si, a native of Shangcai in the State of Chu, served as a petty official in his youth. He observed rats in the latrine of the official building stealing and eating excrement, and when people approached, they would quickly flee for their lives.
Later, when he visited the granary for inspection, he saw rats in the warehouse eating official grain, and they showed no fear even when people were present.
He then sighed with great emotion, saying, "Whether a person is worthy or unworthy is like these rats; it all depends on where they place themselves."