How to Soften a Fierce Facial Expression
Some people are born with a fierce look. In physiognomy, this can be interpreted in several ways: it might portend harm to family members, invite trouble, or even suggest imprisonment or an early death.
It is often said that building virtue and doing good deeds can offset such a look, but that is not a cure-all. Cultivating virtue mainly addresses misfortune that arises later in life by reshaping one's mindset and behavior. Some people are not fierce by nature; only their features are. That look may be innate. They are not necessarily stubborn or malicious; rather, their appearance can predispose them to extremes and emotional distortion. With proper guidance, they can develop uncommon strengths. In physiognomy, "unusual" features often describe those who may not be conventionally attractive yet can still achieve success when placed on the right path.
In particular, red veins in the eyes and heavy brows often lend a fierce look that can be both innate and acquired. A person's fate is not entirely predetermined. If someone has these features but is upright and well-proportioned, with firm lips and rounded teeth, they need not be counted as truly fierce. People like this rarely lead ordinary lives and can be disruptive if their energies go unused. However, in the military or law enforcement, they may find their calling. For example, Lu Zhishen from "Water Margin" is characterized by his straightforwardness and impulsiveness, yet he is also meticulous. Such individuals are courageous; placed in environments where their strengths cannot be used, they may cause chaos. Conversely, when put to good use, they can become heroes. In reality, this is akin to boxer Mike Tyson, a legend in the ring. His aggression finds a healthy outlet in boxing; without it, he might cause trouble outside the ring.
Few understand this principle. People with fierce appearances are not devoid of kindness or good connections, and it is not always wise to forcefully suppress their nature to make them appear gentle. After becoming a monk, Lu Zhishen's temperament remained, yet his heart was kind—this proves the point. Unfortunately, individuals with fierce appearances often do not recognize the paths to transformation or understand their inherent tendencies. Once they enter society, their abilities may go unrecognized, leading them to develop bad habits and even become criminals. Thus, among those with similar fierce appearances, some may end up in trouble and break the law, while others can become exceptional special forces soldiers or loyal bodyguards.
Objectively speaking, although these outcomes differ greatly, they arise from similar inherent traits; only their paths and social roles diverge, producing contrasting fates. No one is perfect; everyone has made mistakes and carries both sins and merits. As long as one chooses the right channels, it is not difficult to reduce the risks.