Certain qualities that attract help from others can make a significant difference in the support we receive. These traits go beyond basic decency; they reflect a deep concern for others’ well-being and a willingness to act selflessly. Let’s explore some of these qualities through stories from ancient times.
Having a kind heart
Once upon a time, a boy named Sun Shu’ao lived with his mother in a poor village. Every day, he would take his sheep to graze in the mountains. One day, not long after he left, Sun Shu’ao returned home crying, without his sheep. The villagers feared a wolf attack and gathered to go up the mountain.
Sun Shu’ao stopped crying just long enough to tell them it wasn’t wolves. Confused, the villagers asked why he had come back alone in tears. Sun Shu’ao began crying again and said: “I am going to die soon, and I can’t bear to leave my mother.”
The villagers pressed him for more details, and he revealed that he had seen a snake with two heads while tending the sheep. According to local lore, seeing a two-headed snake meant certain death, which explained his grief. The villagers asked where the snake had gone, and Sun Shu’ao replied: “I knew I was going to die, but I didn’t want anyone else to see a two-headed snake, so I killed it.”
The villagers were deeply moved by his selflessness, thinking of others even when he believed he was facing death. They assured Sun Shu’ao that the belief about the snake was just a myth and that he would be fine. The villagers helped him find his sheep and even gathered money and food to help him attend a private school. Later, Sun Shu’ao rose to become a high-ranking official and generously repaid the villagers’ kindness.
Kindness is a valuable trait that involves sacrificing personal interests to consider others. While many claim not to be bad people, they often only avoid doing wrong without actively helping others in need. To be someone who attracts help and goodwill, you must possess a genuine willingness to help others.
Showing tolerance and generosity
During the Spring and Autumn period, the State of Qi faced internal turmoil. Two princes, Prince Xiaobai and Prince Jiu, fled to escape the chaos. Loyal retainers accompanied each prince. To secure the throne, one of Prince Jiu’s followers, Guan Zhong, attempted to assassinate Prince Xiaobai with a bow and arrow, but failed. Prince Xiaobai returned to Qi and became Duke Huan.
Expecting execution for his failed attempt, Guan Zhong was surprised when Duke Huan, recognizing his talents, set aside his personal grudges and appointed him as the prime minister. In gratitude for the duke’s tolerance, Guan Zhong devoted himself to the affairs of the state, ultimately helping Duke Huan become a dominant figure during that period.
Guan Zhong and Duke Huan’s relationship shows how tolerance and generosity can lead to mutual success. Had they chosen animosity, both might have perished or failed in their ambitions. A person’s easiest choice is often to forgive themselves and resent others. Many people quickly react with hostility when wronged, often creating unnecessary enemies.
A genuinely magnanimous person does not act solely based on personal emotions but looks at the bigger picture, understanding and forgiving as needed.
Types of people who help you thrive
- Those who inspire you and help you see your strengths.
- People who help you clarify your life and work paths.
- Individuals who share good news with you.
- Those who remind you of your shortcomings.
- People who introduce you to successful friends.
- Mentors who believe in you and help you grow.
- People who appreciate, support, and share common interests with you.
- Those who provide positive energy and bring joy into your life.
- Individuals who offer learning opportunities and growth platforms.
Translated by cecilia
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