• Since we are already faced with it, we might as well accept it. There is no need to be anxious at all; let the body gradually build up its resistance and wage a protracted struggle against the illness until finally it emerges victorious. This is the proper approach to chronic diseases. Even in the case of acute illnesses, one can only leave the treatment to the doctors; there is nothing one can do by being anxious, for haste will not help. When dealing with illness, one should possess a firm will to fight, yet avoid impatience. Such is my attitude toward disease. I write this down for Comrade Wang Guanlan’s reference. Mao Zedong, November 16th.