Overestimating human nature can lead to hurt

Being overly trusting and believing in a person can easily result in personal loss. People only reveal their true nature, or the 'evil' within human nature, when their interests are harmed or when things do not go their way.

A liter of rice nurtures a benefactor, while a斗 of rice nurtures an enemy. Sometimes, being too good to others not only fails to elicit gratitude but may even breed resentment. A liter of rice might serve as a lifesaver in a moment, but a斗 of rice provided over time can lead to hatred when you stop giving. The other person may not see your help as assistance but rather take it for granted. When you cease your support, they feel you have taken away something that belonged to them, without recognizing that it was never theirs to begin with.

Human nature is like this: the farmer and the snake, the beggar and the merchant. Being too good to others without any expectation of reciprocity can devalue your contributions and might even lead to resentment. Only by ensuring that the other party has something to contribute can they truly appreciate your kindness.