Just like a big tree that is more easily damaged by the wind, a person who is too conspicuous or showcases their abilities too prominently can draw unwanted attention and criticism. Embracing the wisdom of ancient China, this article delves into the art of keeping a low profile and the timeless value of humility.
Zeng Guofan’s low profile
Zeng Guofan, a renowned minister from the late Qing Dynasty, was a master of living discreetly. Once, his family decided to build a new house in their hometown. Upon receiving the design drafts from his brother, Zeng noticed the towering and lavish structure. Without hesitation, he scaled down the design considerably. He wrote a letter to his brother, cautioning him against building a house too grand for the current turbulent times and advising him to maintain a low profile in the future.
Tan Qian’s unwavering determination
During the transition from the Ming to the Qing Dynasty, there lived a man named Tan Qian. From childhood, he was deeply dedicated to learning. Despite his impoverished circumstances, he traveled widely to borrow books. After reading extensively, he realized that many historical records of his time were riddled with errors. At 27, he embarked on an ambitious journey to compile an accurate history of the Ming Dynasty. In order to accomplish his goal, he traveled all over the world to search for books and collect information. After 26 years, he finally completed over 4 million words of his monumental work Guo Que (National Events).
Tragically, just as he was about to have his work published, it was stolen. The sudden loss of over 20 years of hard work was almost life-ending to Tan Qian. He cried his eyes out every day and couldn’t sleep or eat well. Just when everyone thought that Tan Qian would never recover, he picked himself back up.
With his weakened body, he traveled around to visit Ming Dynasty officials and old friends, and examined historical sites on the ground. After four years of constant effort, he finally completed a new draft of Guo Que and Tan Qian became famous in history.
Later generations spoke of Tan Qian and said: “It’s incredible that a commoner could create such a magnificent history book.”
The lesson of contentment
In ancient times, there was a monk named Huineng. He worked diligently on his spiritual cultivation, but struggled to achieve enlightenment. Deciding on a new strategy, he approached his master with the intention of descending the mountain to continue his practice.
His master was puzzled and asked him why he felt the need to change locations. Whether he was on the mountain or below it, he would still be cultivating in the same manner.
Huineng, feeling disheartened, explained that several of his peers, despite cultivating for a shorter period, had already achieved enlightenment. Meanwhile, he had dedicated himself to meditation daily, only taking breaks to eat and sleep, yet enlightenment eluded him. The weight of this realization bore heavily upon him, akin to a humble sparrow feeling overwhelmed by the majestic presence of a Roc, a mythical bird of prey.
His master inquired: “How vast is a Roc? And how diminutive is a sparrow?”
Huineng responded: “With a mere flap of its wings, the Roc can cover a thousand miles, while the sparrow, regardless of its effort, only manages a few feet above the grass.”
Reflecting deeply, the Master retorted: “Even if the Roc can traverse vast distances, can it truly soar beyond the confines of life and death? Each creature has its unique journey. Why then, do we find the need to compare the Roc to the sparrow?”
Huineng did not speak, but was suddenly enlightened.
Echoing this wisdom, Zeng Guofan once said: “An honorable man does not compare himself with others.”
In life, there are always those who seem to have more than we do. Constantly measuring ourselves against others will only lead to dissatisfaction.
Instead of comparing yourself with others, focus on your own path. Find contentment and joy in what you have, and you’ll discover a sense of peace within.
Translated by Eva
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