One generation plants the trees, another gets the shade

Similar sayings:

The one who plants the tree is not the one who will enjoy its shade The one who plants the tree is not the one who will enjoy its shade
The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago The second best time is today The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago The second best time is today
If you are planning for a year, sow rice; if you are planning for a decade, plant trees; if you are planning for a lifetime, educate people If you are planning for a year, sow rice; if you are planning for a decade, plant trees; if you are planning for a lifetime, educate people
Plant the crab-tree where you will it will never bear pippins Plant the crab-tree where you will it will never bear pippins
Patience is a bitter plant, but it has sweet fruit Patience is a bitter plant, but it has sweet fruit

Chinese sayings and proverbs