In a world that often emphasizes perfection, there lies a profound wisdom in embracing life’s imperfections. This is true in our achievements, relationships, and personal lives.
The pursuit of flawlessness can be exhausting and ultimately unattainable, leaving us feeling defeated when things inevitably fall short. However, a character’s true strength emerges not from avoiding mistakes or hardships but from our ability to accept them, learn from them, and continue moving forward. Through this acceptance, we find the resilience to adapt, grow, and discover the beauty in life’s imperfections.
The power of letting go: Tan Shizi’s advice to Meng Changjun
Meng Changjun, or Lord Mengchang, a prominent politician and nobleman of the Warring States period, once faced impeachment and expulsion from the State of Qi. Feeling deeply wronged, he grew indignant and, upon regaining power, became consumed with thoughts of revenge against those who had opposed him.
Tan Shizi, Qi’s wise and respected minister, saw through Meng’s resentment and confronted him directly: “Are you still holding a grudge against those who impeached you? Will killing them truly bring you peace?” Meng, still bitter, replied, “Of course.”
Tan offered a profound perspective: “Look at the market. In the morning, it is bustling with people, but by evening, it is empty. This is not because people love the morning market and hate the evening one; they act according to their needs.”
Tan’s words carried a profound truth: most people act out of their desires and needs. When someone is rich and powerful, others are naturally drawn to them; when they fall into misfortune, people instinctively distance themselves. Human relationships often follow this pattern; we cannot expect others to disregard their needs and remain by our side.
Hearing this, Meng reflected deeply on Tan’s wisdom. Realizing its truth, he let go of his hatred. His choice to rise above resentment brought him inner peace and widespread praise.
The ups and downs of life: Su Shi
Su Shi, also known as Su Dongpo, was a brilliant and celebrated poet in the Song Dynasty. At 21, he topped the imperial examination, becoming a sensation in the capital and quickly rising through government ranks. However, his career faced significant challenges due to his opposition to Wang Anshi, an influential statesman who had introduced sweeping reforms. Su’s dissent against these reforms led to his exclusion from power.
After years of service, Su was unexpectedly transferred to Huzhou. Without warning, a court envoy arrived and took him back to the capital, where it was revealed that a group of censors — eager to gain favor with Wang Anshi — had accused Su of distorting facts in his poetry and slandering the court. This led to the infamous “Wutai Poetry Case,” resulting in Su Shi’s imprisonment and a dramatic shift in his life’s trajectory.
Eventually, Su Shi was exiled to Huangzhou (modern-day Huanggang County, Hubei Province). Upon his arrival, life proved extremely difficult—he had no salary, and even securing basic housing was a struggle. However, Su’s friends managed to acquire several acres of wasteland for him to the east of the city. There, he began to farm and build a modest home. Su labored tirelessly on the East Slope, sweating under the sun, while his wife supported him every step of the way. Together, they faced hardships and joys, finding strength and solace in each other’s company as they adjusted to their new life.
Although life in Huangzhou was difficult, Su Shi’s open-minded nature helped him find joy in his spiritual life. As he cleared the land and worked the East Slope, he deeply admired the once-neglected estate. He even came to admire the rocky, rugged roads, finding inspiration in their difficulty, encouraging him to press on with bravery and optimism.
After a year of hard labor, Su built a study near the East Slope and named it “Dongpo Xuetang” (Dongpo Academy), where he could continue his scholarly pursuits. From then on, he became affectionately known as “Lay Buddhist Dongpo.” Su also visited Chibi (Red Cliffs) and rowed on the river, seeking peace and reflection in the natural beauty surrounding him.
The “Wutai Poetry Case” deeply affected Su Shi and led to a profound personal transformation. The experience of imprisonment and exile caused him to reflect on the limitations of human nature and the inevitability of life’s challenges. In response, he wrote several works focused on self-cultivation, such as Qianbi Fu, in which he explored the principles of life’s constant changes.
His other pieces, like Nian Nu Jiao: Bi Huai Gu and Hou Bi Fu, expressed a sense of broad-mindedness and acceptance. During this period, Su Shi reached the peak of his literary and artistic achievements while attaining a higher level of wisdom in understanding human nature and navigating the trials of life.
The stories of Meng Changjun and Su Shi reveal that true wisdom lies not in the pursuit of perfection but in the acceptance of life’s inherent flaws. Both faced significant challenges, yet their ability to embrace adversity and persevere led to a more profound sense of peace and understanding. Their journeys teach us that fulfillment is not found in avoiding difficulties but in navigating them with resilience and grace.
Translated by Joseph Wu and edited by Tatiana Denning
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