Leadership, Featured

Zhu Yuanzhang’s Rule: An Iron Fist Against Corruption and Lawlessness

As the founder of the Ming Dynasty, Zhu Yuanzhang, also known as Ming Taizu, was determined to build a strong, powerful, and morally upright empire. One of his primary strategies involved strict governance and a zero-tolerance policy for corruption and lawbreaking, even among his family members. This commitment to justice and integrity profoundly affected the ...

Hermann Rohr

Zhu Yuanzhang.

The Lasting Influence of the Qian Family: A Legacy of Virtue and Success

The Qian family, a name deeply etched in the annals of Chinese history, surprises many by ranking second in the “Hundred Family Surnames.” This narrative uncovers the profound impact of the Qian family’s virtues and decisions, drawing a line from the ancient Kingdom of Wuyue to today’s distinguished scholars and leaders. Unveiling the historical significance ...

Hermann Rohr

The King Qian Temple.

Unlocking Juicy Secrets: How to Enjoy the Health Benefits of Pomegranates

Imagine yourself in a lush orchard where the air is thick with the sweet aroma of ripe fruit. Among the vibrant array, the pomegranates stand out like a ruby gem. Known for its delightful taste and myriad health benefits, the juicy seeds of the pomegranate are packed with flavor and nutrients. In this article, we ...

Viena Abdon

Pomegranates on a crate with a glass containing pomegranate juice.

Human Nature Is Good, Sometimes Kindness Just Needs a Spark to Ignite it

In an age where stories of negativity and conflict often dominate the headlines, it’s the quiet, potent acts of kindness that weave the underlying fabric of our society together. These acts of kindness, often unnoticed by the masses, hold the power to transform lives in unexpected and profound ways. The narratives that follow, set against ...

Emma Lu

Woman in a field with arms outstretched, surrounded by butterflies.

Fate and Fortune: Fang Guancheng’s Guardian Angels

In the tumultuous times of the Qing Dynasty, a man named Fang Guancheng (1696-1768) from Tongcheng experienced a life filled with both fortuitous encounters and narrow escapes from peril. His early years were marked by adversity when his father was forcibly conscripted into the army due to involvement with a distinguished author whose works sparked ...

Mikel Davis

Illustration of an ancient pathway, a serene landscape, and the guiding presence of guardian figures to accompany a traveler in ancient Chinese clothing.

Exhibiting the Radiance of Humanity: The Vegetable Vendor Chen Shuju

Chen Shuju is a traditional market vegetable vendor and philanthropist in Taitung, Taiwan. She is widely recognized for her continuous contributions to society, accumulating substantial donations over the years. Her fame stems from her humbly selling vegetables at three bundles for NT$50 for over 20 years, living frugally, and dedicating herself to long-term charitable endeavors, ...

Emma Lu

Chen Shuju.

Transforming Trash Into Treasure: Innovative Recycling Ventures

You generate a significant amount of waste in your daily life. While most people find trash undesirable, those with a quick wit see potential where others see refuse, turning what was once considered worthless into lucrative opportunities. A shift in perspective can alter the trajectory of one’s life. Identifying problems in the workplace and transforming ...

Mikel Davis

Wooden blocks with the letters spelling 'trash' on one side and 'treasure' on the other.

Dreams That Predict the Future: What Does Science Have to Say?

For millennia, dreams have been a source of fascination and mystery. Almost every culture has some form of dream interpretation. For instance, Ancient Egyptians believed dreams were messages from the gods telling us about the future. And those brought up in Abrahamic religions may be familiar with Joseph’s dreams and their fulfillment. But what do ...

Viena Abdon

Sunset in the mountains with clouds.

Li Bi and the Wisdom of Non-Attachment to Power and Position

In the political arena of the mid-Tang Dynasty, Li Bi was a somewhat mysterious figure. He served four Emperors: Emperor Xuanzong, Emperor Suzong, Emperor Daizong, and Emperor Dezong. This period was disastrous, with treacherous ministers in power and vassal towns out of control. Li Bi’s longevity can be attributed to two principles Many ministers died ...

Emma Lu

Small Wild Goose Pagoda in Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.

Foods to Incorporate in Your Diet That Help Prevent Blood Clots

It’s common knowledge that nutrition plays a crucial role in your overall health, but did you know that certain foods can help prevent blood clots?  While not a disease on its own, thickened blood is a condition that can significantly affect your health, particularly as you age or live with certain medical conditions like hypertension, ...

Hermann Rohr

A blood clot forming.