To lament one's prolonged idleness and comfort, fearing that one has grown soft and lost the ability or ambition to achieve great things.
Era:
Ancient
Frequency:
Synonym:
Story:
During the late Eastern Han Dynasty, after losing his territory in a conflict with Cao Cao, Liu Bei sought refuge with Liu Biao. Liu Biao held a banquet to console him. The two conversed cheerfully.
Later, when Liu Bei went to the latrine, he inadvertently touched his thighs and was startled to find that the flesh had grown back, indicating a period of inactivity.
Upon returning to his seat, he couldn't help but sigh, reflecting, 'If I continue like this, living in comfort, when will I ever succeed in restoring the Han Dynasty?'
Afterward, Liu Biao provided him with territory and troops to help him counter Cao Cao.