Confucius, in Pound's translation, says that good government depends on order in the family, and that in turn depends on self-discipline. Discipline can be achieved by finding precise verbal definitions for inarticulate thoughts (literally, the tones given off by the heart). To find the right words requires the completion of knowledge, which is rooted in sorting things into organic categories.

Clear communication therefore depends on precise language.

This is the key to health and it allows control of one's own destiny. It is essential to know and to articulate what we truly feel. We cannot keep secrets from ourselves and remain healthy. Sometimes we know there are secrets, but we don't know exactly what they are. Our true feelings may never have been shared. We may keep them from ourselves because they are too painful or confusing. The process of finding the right words for what we feel, even if we do not share these words, puts us on the road to recovery and joy. When we discover the words, this can dispel the clouds and let in the light.

Finding the right words is hard work and it leads to surprising results. It builds connections and aligns our hearts with what is true and right.