In the annals of Qing Dynasty lore, the story of Wei Lianfang’s father stands out as a beacon of compassion and medical expertise. A physician of great virtue, he treated all who sought his help with unwavering dedication, regardless of their financial status. His generosity knew no bounds; for those too impoverished to afford treatment, he would waive his fees and donate medicine.
A physician’s compassion
Wei’s father had a unique approach to treating patients from the countryside who came to the city for medical attention. He would first offer them porridge or rice cakes, understanding that their long journeys left them hungry and tired, which could disrupt their pulse — a critical diagnostic tool in traditional Chinese medicine. “These folks come from afar, tired and hungry, leading to chaotic pulses. By feeding them and allowing them to rest, their pulse settles, making diagnosis possible. My acts of kindness are not to build up a reputation of selflessness; they are purely to enhance my ability to provide proper treatment,” he would say.
An unjust accusation
One day, Wei Lianfang’s father was called to attend to a patient whose family later discovered that 10 taels of silver were missing. The patient’s son, swayed by slander, suspected Wei’s father but dared not confront him directly. Instead, he was advised to kneel at the physician’s door with incense as a gesture of seeking truth. Surprised by this act, Wei’s father inquired about the man’s intentions. After hearing his concerns, Wei’s father invited him into a private room, admitting to borrowing the silver for an urgent need with the intention of secretly returning it during a follow-up visit. He promptly returned the silver, urging the son to keep the matter confidential.
Twist of fate
The incident sparked widespread speculation and gossip, painting Wei Lianfang’s father in a controversial light. However, Wei’s father remained unfazed by the rumors. Eventually, the patient recovered and, while tidying up the bedding, found the silver underneath the mattress, thus realizing the grave error they made in accusing the physician unjustly. Ashamed, the patient and his son returned to Wei Lianfang’s father, this time to apologize and return the silver he had given them out of compassion.
The healer’s silence
Curious about his decision not to defend his reputation, the patient’s son inquired about it. Wei’s father explained that publicizing the truth would have worsened his fellow villager’s condition by adding stress over the lost silver. He chose to bear the stigma to ensure the patient’s peace of mind and speedy recovery. Touched by the physician’s immense kindness and self-sacrifice, the patient and his son expressed their deepest gratitude and vowed to repay his generosity in their next lives.
A legacy of honor
The selfless act of Wei Lianfang’s father not only restored his reputation, but elevated it, making his name synonymous with virtue and healing prowess. Wei’s father lived a long and honored life, receiving numerous accolades, and his descendants also enjoyed a life of distinction, thanks to the noble legacy he left behind.
A timeless message
In an age where the pursuit of personal gain often overshadows selfless acts, the story of Wei Lianfang’s father offers a refreshing perspective. It serves as a potent reminder that:
- Empathy and kindness can transcend societal expectations.
- Reputation is not always a reflection of one’s true character.
- Sometimes, silence in the face of accusation can be a profound act of compassion.
As we navigate the complexities of modern life, let us take a moment to reflect on the values embodied in the story of Wei Lianfang’s father. May we strive to incorporate his selflessness and understanding into our own lives, creating a ripple effect of goodwill that spans generations.
Translated article
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