In various epochs of human history, we find leaders and thinkers who stand out for their wisdom, wit, and a keen understanding of human nature. From the corridors of American politics to the enlightening teachings of ancient China, the following anecdotes unveil glimpses of wisdom from some of history’s most esteemed figures, such as Abraham Lincoln, Albert Einstein, Thomas Jefferson, and Confucius.
Wisdom of the ages
Lincoln’s approach to political enemies
Abraham Lincoln’s attitude toward his political adversaries caused dissatisfaction among some officials. Criticized for attempting to befriend his enemies instead of annihilating them, Lincoln gently responded: “When they become my friends, am I not destroying my enemies?”
Einstein and the criticism of relativity
After Albert Einstein created the theory of relativity, the scientific community’s opinions were divided. In 1930, Germany published a book titled “100 Professors Prove Einstein Was Wrong.” Upon hearing this, Einstein couldn’t help but laugh, saying: “A hundred? Why so many? If someone could really prove me wrong, even one person would suffice.”
Jefferson’s commitment to freedom of the press
When German scientist Baron Alexander von Humboldt visited President Thomas Jefferson, he found a newspaper filled with insults against the President. Outraged, the Baron asked why the President allowed such libel. Jefferson calmly replied with wisdom, suggesting he keep the newspaper as evidence of freedom of the press, saying: “Put the newspaper in your pocket, Baron. If anyone doubts our freedom and freedom of the press, you can show them this newspaper and tell them where you saw it.”
Jefferson’s lesson in humility
One day, President Jefferson and his grandson were riding in a carriage when a slave respectfully tipped his hat to them. Jefferson acknowledged the gesture, but his grandson ignored it. Jefferson sternly reminded his grandson: “Thomas, do you allow a slave to be more of a gentleman than you?” He emphasized that no one should be treated poorly for showing respect, regardless of their social status.
Confucius’s understanding of human nature
Once, Confucius was trapped somewhere between the states of Chen and Tsai and had no food. He had not eaten for seven days and was exhausted. During the daytime, he could only lie down and rest. Yan Hui brought back some rice from out of nowhere and cooked it afterward.
After a while, when the rice was almost ready to eat, Confucius saw Yan Hui take some from the pot and eat it. When the rice was ready, Yan Hui politely invited Confucius to have the rice. Confucius pretended that he did not see what just happened, stood up, and said: “I just dreamed of the ancestors. Since the rice looks clean, I would like to offer it as a sacrifice for the ancestors and eat it later.” In Chinese culture, it is prohibited to offer food as a sacrifice after one has started eating the dish, otherwise, it would be disrespectful to the ancestors.
Yan Hui replied in a hurry: “Please don’t. There was some charcoal ash that fell into the pot and stained the rice. It would be a waste if I threw it away so I ate it.”
Confucius sighed and told his disciples: “People should trust what they see. But even what the eyes actually see is not necessarily the truth. People trust their hearts, but even the heart is sometimes not reliable. You should remember that truly understanding a person is never easy!”
The incident of “Yan Hui stealing food” almost caused Confucius to misunderstand his favorite student. After that, he understood the truth that “seeing is not necessarily believing.” Even a sage could misjudge and doubt his most trusted disciple, not to mention ordinary people. Fortunately, he knew how to understand the truth with wisdom and finally resolved the misunderstanding.
Conclusion
These timeless tales of wisdom remind us of the complexity of human nature and the eternal values that guide our existence. Whether it’s Lincoln’s compassion, Einstein’s confidence, Jefferson’s commitment to freedom, or Confucius’s profound insight into humanity, the stories continue to inspire and teach us how to approach life with grace, humility, understanding, and wisdom. These lessons, though centuries apart, remain eternally relevant, providing a rich tapestry of wisdom through the ages.
Translated by Cecilia
