Extraordinary acts of courage and integrity often come from the most unexpected places, revealing the greatness within ordinary people. Throughout history, individuals who seemed unremarkable on the surface have shown extraordinary strength by standing up for what is right. Their quiet determination and moral resolve have shaped the world around them. These individuals are exceptional, not because of their positions but their character. Here are two such stories from history that illustrate their remarkable impact.
Zhao She: Confronting the king’s son to enforce the law
When Zhao She was an official in charge of collecting taxes on farmland in the State of Zhao, he encountered a significant challenge. The king’s son, Lord Pingyuan, refused to pay taxes, relying on his high status to evade the law. This caused a great stir throughout the state, as many wanted to see how Zhao She would handle the situation. If he failed to deal with Lord Pingyuan, his authority as a tax officer would be severely undermined.
Zhao She summoned Lord Pingyuan’s steward, who arrogantly dismissed him, saying: “The entire kingdom belongs to the Zhao family. What right do you have to demand taxes from Lord Pingyuan?”
Zhao She responded calmly, but firmly: “Yes, the kingdom belongs to the Zhao family, but do you know who established the tax laws?” “The king, of course,” the steward replied dismissively. “And do you know the punishment for failing to pay taxes?” Zhao She asked. “I don’t know,” the steward replied impatiently. “Stop wasting my time. I’m leaving.” “Tell me,” Zhao She turned to his staff, “what is the penalty for defying the national law and refusing to pay taxes?” “Death!” they all answered in unison.
The steward scoffed: “Do you dare?” “I do,” Zhao She replied, and with firm resolve, he immediately ordered the executioner to behead the steward. He summoned another steward from Lord Pingyuan’s household, but when that steward refused to pay the taxes, Zhao She also had him executed. In total, Zhao She executed nine stewards from Lord Pingyuan’s household.
When Lord Pingyuan learned of this, he was furious and swore to kill Zhao She to avenge his men. Knowing this, Zhao She took it upon himself to visit Lord Pingyuan’s residence. He explained: “I acted solely for the benefit of the State of Zhao, which includes your future as well.” Lord Pingyuan, still enraged, replied: “You killed nine of my stewards, and you claim it was for my good?”
Zhao She explained: “You are a prince of high standing in Zhao. If I allow your household to evade taxes, others will follow your example, and the king’s laws will lose their authority. This will drain the treasury and weaken the kingdom. In time, this will make Zhao vulnerable to invasions by other states. At best, we will lose soldiers and territory; at worst, the entire state could be destroyed. And if Zhao is lost, how will you retain your wealth and position? However, if you set an example by following the law and paying taxes, the rest of the kingdom will follow, strengthening the state and making it more secure. Your status and wealth will be preserved. Now, considering both outcomes, which is truly in your best interest?”
Upon hearing this, Lord Pingyuan finally understood Zhao She’s loyalty and the consequences of his actions. He promptly paid the overdue taxes and recommended Zhao She to the king. The king then promoted Zhao She to oversee the kingdom’s tax system. Under his leadership, the state’s treasury flourished, and the people enjoyed stability and prosperity. Eventually, Zhao She was promoted to the rank of general.
Zheng Lao: The clerk who valued integrity
In the headquarters of the Governor-General of Guangxi, there was an old clerk named Zheng Lao, known for his upright nature and courage to speak the truth. The Governor-General, Han Guan, was a great authority, yet he sincerely appreciated and respected Zheng Lao.
Han Guan had a habit of ordering executions when drunk, but Zheng Lao would intervene, sparing those who didn’t deserve to die, and would explain the reasons to Han Guan once he sobered up. Han Guan was always grateful to him for this.
After Han Guan passed away, Shan Yun succeeded him as Governor-General of Guangxi. Shan Yun, a man of integrity, first sought the counsel of respected elders regarding border affairs. When he learned about Zheng Lao, he summoned him and said: “People believe that a general’s competence is measured by his ability to win battles, regardless of whether or not he is corrupt. In Guangxi, where wealth is highly valued, is this a place where I can accumulate additional wealth without being discovered?”
Zheng Lao replied: “My lord, you are like a brand new and pure white robe. It can never be fully cleansed once it gets even the smallest ink stain.” Shan Yun then asked: “People say that if I refuse gifts from the locals, they will become suspicious and angry. What should I do?” Zheng Lao responded: “If an official is corrupt, the imperial court imposes harsh punishments. Do you not fear the court yet are afraid of offending these locals?”
After pondering Zheng Lao’s words, Shan Yun smiled and repeatedly nodded in agreement. He took the advice to heart and maintained his incorruptibility throughout his tenure as Governor-General of Guangxi, which lasted over 10 years. His moral integrity was partly due to his character and partly thanks to Zheng Lao’s constant reminders.
Although just an ordinary clerk, Zheng Lao was a remarkable man. He courageously stopped the murderous Han Guan and dared to advise the new Governor-General, Shan Yun, to avoid corruption. As a humble subordinate, his integrity and actions had extraordinary impacts. Ultimately, it is not one’s position but rather one’s character that defines true greatness. The integrity and actions of individuals create a positive impact and leave a lasting mark on history.
Translated by Katy Liu and edited by Tatina Denning
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