A person who has experienced great ups and downs in life will eventually see through the fleeting nature of worldly wealth and glory, recognizing the illusory nature of the material world as but a grand dream. The enduring development of a family relies on the transmission of culture and spirit; only noble souls can profoundly influence future generations.
Our ancestor, Jin Rizhen, experienced a dramatic life journey, from being a prince of the Xiongnu to a slave of the Han people, and later a minister trusted with the guardianship of a child. Despite periods of poverty, he maintained his integrity and composure, even when in high office. During a banquet hosted by Emperor Wu of Han, where the mood was jovial and an order was given to parade horses for entertainment, many grooms peeked at the beauties of the harem. However, Jin Rizhen, standing at an impressive height of eight chi and two cun with a commanding presence and well-nourished horses, did not dare. Emperor Wu, surprised by his dignity, inquired about this groom and upon learning of his royal heritage, appointed him as the overseer of horses, and later promoted him to positions such as Imperial Central Attendant, Cavalry Commandant, and Grandee Secretary.
Jin Rizhen's two sons were favorites of Emperor Wu, often used to lighten the emperor's mood. On one occasion, when one son playfully embraced the emperor from behind, Jin Rizhen, witnessing this, glared in disapproval. When his son grew indiscreet in his behavior, engaging in licentious acts with palace maids which Jin Rizhen observed, he was so incensed that he killed his son. When Emperor Wu learned of this, although initially furious, he came to deeply respect Jin Rizhen for his principled stand. Jin Rizhen's actions demonstrated a level of moral integrity rare in any era.
Influenced by such a character, generations of descendants, regardless of their circumstances, managed to live contentedly and prosperously. During the Ming dynasty, a descendant named Cong Lan exemplified similar virtues. Born during a thunderstorm in 1456, which filled the house with a strange fragrance, he was named Cong Lan ("Orchid") due to the scent. The following day, his father, Cong Chun, intending to hang a sword on the door as a traditional sign of good fortune, discovered it was unnecessary as two court officials had already taken shelter from the rain and inadvertently signified the event by their presence.
From a young age, Cong Lan was remarkably bright. Though poverty initially prevented formal schooling, he would eavesdrop on classes at a private school, secretly learning and writing on the ground outside the window. His intelligence was eventually recognized by a teacher who offered him free tuition. Cong Lan was diligent and excelled in his studies, winning the favor and special attention of his teachers.
Cong Lan's official career was distinguished and upright. He earned military accolades without arrogance. Once tasked with escorting a prince suspected of rebellion to the capital for trial, Cong Lan managed the delicate situation with discretion, ensuring the prince's dignity was maintained, which earned him the prince's gratitude once exonerated.
Cong Lan taught his children that peace of mind was more valuable than high office, urging them to achieve positions through their own efforts rather than relying on influence. This philosophy became a foundational family creed, deeply ingrained in his descendants.
In his later years, despite offers to return to high office, Cong Lan chose instead to teach in the countryside, believing that even the smallest official could gain honor through dedicated service. His life and family teachings serve as a model, emphasizing the virtues of integrity, frugality, and the importance of education, which profoundly shaped his community and future generations.
Thus, the story of Cong Lan and his family's teachings not only provides a legacy for his descendants but also offers valuable lessons on morality, education, and civic responsibility, illustrating the ideal qualities of a citizen who serves both as a guardian of society and a bearer of cultural and ethical values.
Below is the family maxim of Cong Lan:
Cong Lan's Family Maxims
Hear ye, although I am but a scholar without the influence of parents or siblings, I have held office for over thirty years, received more than twenty imperial decrees, exposed corruption, defended the frontiers, and governed with strict integrity. I have walked on thin ice for three decades, thankfully without betraying the expectations of my emperor or the people. Now approaching seventy, with my health declining, I have requested retirement seven times before it was finally granted. I tell you this: our family's nature is straightforward and simple, often rigid and inflexible. Those among later generations who are not quick-witted and solid should heed this warning against pursuing official careers. Studying is meant to illuminate understanding, not to chase after degrees; serving in government should be about devotion to the state, not personal gain. Remember, those who serve: the importance of an office is not in its rank, but in serving and loving the people. Even a minor official can display their talent. Do not covet the power or wealth of the influential; do not assume high positions to flaunt power or accumulate riches at the expense of the people, or curry favor with the powerful to oppress others. Such actions will inevitably lead to disaster.
In dealings, be modest and courageous without fear. It is better to have a peaceful heart than a high position. Serve if it aligns with righteousness; withdraw if it does not. Avoid forming factions and cliques, be upright and incorruptible, contentedly retire from greed, harm none during the day, harbor no secrets at night. Only by embracing virtue and goodness can one live without regrets under the vast sky.
In family life, prioritize filial piety and friendship, cultivate the tradition of learning and farming. Remember, it is disastrous to hold a high position without the virtue to match, or to devise grand plans without the wisdom to support them. The suitability of one's character to their position, fortune and misfortune, hinges on a moment's thought. One should naturally earn their keep; those who gain without reason invite misfortune. Cherish poetry and learning, foster good relations within the clan, maintain integrity in passing on family traditions, and teach these values under the shade of the trees to our descendants. This is my wish.
This family maxim embodies the essence of Cong Lan's teachings and his life's philosophy, advocating for a life of integrity, responsibility, and humility. It encourages future generations to maintain a clear conscience and uphold ethical standards, whether in public office or private life, ensuring the lasting legacy of a family committed to the welfare of the community and the betterment of society.
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