Historically these things

Author: Dong Li Zi
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2007-01-01
Features: What is called history is simply that some people did some things. Therefore, history is actually very common and, because of its commonality, it is fascinating. These events in history are very engaging—there are vivid characters, captivating events, the cruelty of close combat, and mesmerizing conspiracies that leave you reflecting and lingering. Reading These Events in History allows you to observe the changes of the times, learn the gains and losses of politics, and acquire wisdom in life, drawing on the experiences of success and failures. In today's highly informed world, the wisdom accumulated by the ancients over thousands of years has an unbreakable cultural continuity and a highly practical significance in application. Through reading These Events in History, we can gain and learn several aspects of life wisdom:
1. The Wisdom of Rulers' Manipulation
What is meant by manipulation is firmly grasping control over the entire situation. The supreme and unique status of rulers determines their way of life, methods of dealing with others, and leadership philosophy, all of which can be summarized in one word—domination. They use the talents of the world to serve their own purposes and mobilize the efforts of all under heaven for their benefit. This absolute ruling position of emperors over their subordinates and the overall situation in feudal politics gives them the space to fully unleash their life wisdom: as long as they firmly hold the control over the whole situation, everything else becomes manageable.
2. The Wisdom of Officials' Strategic Planning
What is meant by strategic planning is to approach things with a mindset of management, making success more likely. Generally speaking, as officials, one must lead others while also being led by others—even the most esteemed prime ministers of ancient times were not above a high and mighty emperor. Officials must prioritize the virtue of loyalty, but a Twenty-Four Histories, we find that loyal officials are not necessarily rewarded by their rulers, nor do they necessarily achieve success, nor do they necessarily have a smooth career—sometimes, they may even risk their lives. We do not deny that officials should be loyal, especially loyal to the highest interests of the nation. However, as a "leader" who must remain subordinate and as a "leader" who must face complex situations involving others, only by viewing their position and tasks with a mindset of management can they achieve success in their endeavors.
3. The Wisdom of Protecting Oneself and One's Family
As an official, one must understand this: achieving success in work is different from protecting oneself and one's family. Have you not seen how loyal ministers become victims of injustice? Have you not seen how even with great achievements, some people fail to achieve their ambitions? These are the consequences of knowing only how to work but not how to protect oneself. This brings us to the topic of statecraft. People immediately think of words like cunning, despicable, and treacherous, as statecraft has long been criticized in traditional Chinese culture yet frequently employed in political struggles. Therefore, statecraft is an unavoidable aspect of ancient politics. You may despise statecraft, but you cannot avoid studying it, and you must be on guard to prevent yourself from becoming a victim of it. Those who can plan for success are wise, but if one cannot protect oneself or one's family, what is the point of achieving success?