There is a story in Hanshu about a rich man who was an avid collector of antiques. Among his collection was a rare jade vase of exquisite workmanship and great historical value, which he treasured dearly.
One night, he noticed a mouse near the precious vase. The rodent jumped into the vase, trying to eat some food carelessly left inside. The sight infuriated the man. In a fit of rage, he threw a stone at the mouse. The mouse was killed, but the precious vase was also shattered.
The loss of the vase pained the man greatly. He deeply regretted his own thoughtlessness, which had brought him this irrecoverable loss. He realized that anyone who acts on immediate impulse without considering the consequences is apt to bring disaster upon themselves. So he exclaimed to warn others: "Do not burn your house to get rid of a mouse."