During ancient China’s Spring and Autumn Period, the State of Qi was a flourishing kingdom known for its culture and intellect. At the heart of this vibrant state was Yan Zi, also known as Yan Ying, a renowned prime minister celebrated for his wisdom, humility, and unwavering dedication to his people. Despite his high status, Yan Zi was a man of modest demeanor, always approachable and deeply respected by nobles and commoners alike.
One bright morning, as the sun cast golden hues over the capital’s bustling streets, Yan Zi prepared for his daily duties at the royal court. His carriage awaited him — a modest yet dignified vehicle befitting his status but reflecting his humble nature. Holding the reins was his trusted coachman, Liu, who had served him faithfully for several years. Liu was a capable man, but had lately been swayed by the trappings of proximity to power.
As they set off, the streets were alive with merchants setting up stalls, children playing, and scholars engaging in animated discussions. The carriage moved steadily through the thoroughfares, drawing the attention of passersby who bowed in respect upon recognizing Yan Zi. Seated inside, Yan Zi was deep in thought, contemplating matters of state and the well-being of his people.
Meanwhile, Liu sat atop the carriage with a proud posture and a slight smirk on his face. Clad in fine garments provided by his position, he snapped the reins with an unnecessary flourish and gazed down upon the pedestrians with an air of superiority. His attitude suggested that he was not the servant of a great man, but someone of great importance himself.
As fate would have it, their route took them past Liu’s neighborhood. His wife, Mei, was at home weaving silk by the open window. Hearing the familiar sound of hooves and the murmur of the crowd, she peered out to see what the commotion was about. Through the gentle sway of willow branches, she saw the prime minister’s carriage approaching.
Eager to catch a glimpse of the esteemed Yan Zi, Mei stepped outside, blending into the group of townsfolk gathering by the roadside. Her eyes first sought the dignitary within, and she was moved by the sight of Yan Zi sitting calmly, his gaze thoughtful and his manner serene. Here was a man of immense power, yet he bore it with grace and humility.
Her gaze then shifted to the coachman, and her heart sank. There was Liu, her husband, displaying an air of arrogance she had never before witnessed. He held his chin high; his eyes narrowed disdainfully at those who stepped aside for the carriage. He cracked his whip, not out of necessity, but seemingly to assert dominance, basking in the reflected glory of the man he served.
That evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon and lanterns began to glow softly along the streets, Liu returned home. Expecting a warm greeting, he was surprised to find Mei sitting solemnly, her expression unreadable.
“Mei, I am home,” he announced, attempting a smile.
She looked up, her eyes reflecting a mix of sadness and resolve. “We need to talk,” she replied quietly.
Concern flickered across his face. “What troubles you?”
Taking a deep breath, Mei stood and faced him. “I have decided that we should part ways.”
Liu was taken aback. “Divorce? What are you saying? Have I not provided well for us? What have I done to deserve this?”
Her voice sharpened. “Today, I saw something that troubled me deeply. I watched as Yan Zi’s carriage passed by. There he was, the great Prime Minister of Qi, sitting with humility and deep thought, a man respected across all the kingdoms for his wisdom and virtue.”
She paused, her eyes piercing into his. “And then there was you — my husband — the coachman, acting with unwarranted pride, looking down on others as if you were above them. You cracked your whip not to guide the horses, but to draw attention to yourself. Your demeanor was arrogant, your attitude dismissive.”
Liu opened his mouth to protest, but she raised a hand to stop him. “Do you not see? Yan Zi carries the nation’s weight with grace and humility, yet you, merely his driver, display such arrogance. It pains me to say this, but a man who lacks self-awareness and humility has no future. I cannot stand by and watch you walk this path.”
Her words struck Liu like a thunderbolt. He stood in stunned silence, the weight of her observations pressing heavily upon him. “Mei, I had no idea you felt this way,” he finally managed to say. “I… I did not realize how I appeared.”
She softened slightly. “It’s not too late to change, Liu. Reflect upon your actions and choose the man you wish to become.”
That night, Liu struggled to sleep, consumed by shame and self-reflection. His wife’s words echoed in his mind, forcing him to confront his arrogance. Determined to change, he began humbly performing his duties and treating others with respect. In his spare time, he sought knowledge and emulated the virtues of Yan Zi — wisdom, humility, and kindness.
Mei noticed his transformation and, one evening, acknowledged his efforts. “I see the change in you,” she said. “I’m glad you’ve chosen this path.” Liu thanked her, crediting her wisdom for his awakening.
Yan Zi, too, observed the change in Liu and praised his growth. “Facing one’s flaws takes courage,” he remarked. Encouraged by Liu’s sincerity, Yan Zi mentored him and eventually recommended him for an official position. Liu’s journey from a proud coachman to a respected official inspired the people of Qi, demonstrating the power of self-reflection and personal growth.
The story of Liu and Mei is a timeless reminder that true greatness is not bestowed by position or power but is cultivated through character and actions. It teaches us that arrogance stems from ignorance, and only by acknowledging our shortcomings and striving to overcome them can we truly succeed and earn the respect of others.
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