Educate children using the methods of outstanding figures in education

Author: Lu Menglai / Country: Mainland China
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-07-01
Features: Historical Perspective: Xiao Cheng is a great trust. Fang Bao is an old friend of Kangxi and also the teacher of the fourth prince Yin Zhen. He is the only one who can talk freely and without restraint with Kangxi, and the only one Kangxi can consult when facing difficult decisions. During the fierce struggle among the princes for the throne, Kangxi and Fang Bao often discussed the strengths and weaknesses of each prince. As Yin Zhen's teacher, Fang Bao was a stern elder in Yin Zhen's eyes, a man who kept his promises. These excellent qualities permeated his teaching style. This had a great influence on Yin Zhen's outlook on life. Fang Bao demanded that Yin Zhen value honesty. Once, Yin Zhen deliberately skipped class because he had been playing with the princes, and he said he wasn’t feeling well. Fang Bao found out and was very angry. The next day, he said to Yin Zhen, “Do you remember the story of Song Lian from the Ming Dynasty?” Yin Zhen blushed and said, “Yes, Song Lian went to visit his teacher in heavy snow to keep his promise!” Fang Bao said, “Throughout history, all people of high moral character have been honest and trustworthy. Confucius said: A person without trustworthiness is not reliable; the people cannot stand without trustworthiness. Mozi said: Those who do not keep their word will not achieve their goals. Mencius said: Sincerity is the way of heaven; the pursuit of sincerity is the way of man. These are the basic principles of being a person, and we should not violate them. Only with honesty can you stand in society, gain others' respect, and earn their trust, because no one likes to be deceived. Therefore, being a trustworthy person is our responsibility and duty, and it is the most fundamental principle of being a person. To be honest and trustworthy, one must not deceive in private. The Great Learning and the Doctrine of the Mean both teach the importance of being cautious when alone. This is considered the first priority by ancient sages and virtuous people. Later, people expanded on this saying, “Do not deceive in private.” The term “private room” has two meanings: one refers to the time when a person is alone, and the other refers to the hidden depths of one's heart, which others cannot know. Only the noble and virtuous can understand that at such times, they must be particularly strict in their words and deeds, cautious and careful not to overstep the bounds of propriety, always vigilant, and even when doing nothing, maintain a respectful attitude. Even when saying nothing, they are seen as trustworthy. This is the true essence of a noble and upright person. In the intense struggle for succession, Yin Zhen realized the importance of honesty. Kangxi often praised his honesty, which made Yin Zhen truly understand that only trustworthy people could stand in this society. Seeing the scheming among his brothers, he received an education in honesty, and thus he always maintained his trustworthy qualities. It was precisely because of his honesty that Yin Zhen earned Kangxi's favor and ultimately rose to glory on the nine thrones through honesty. P10-P12