generosity, journey to success, kindness, lunar new year, magnanimity, patience, scholar's tale, tolerance, unexpected rewards, virtue

The Virtuous Prime Minister Fan Chunren

Fan Chunren was the second son of the renowned Northern Song statesman Fan Zhongyan. As prime minister of the Northern Song Dynasty, Fan Chunren had a peculiar habit. Whenever he finished his work at the government office, he would change into simple, plain clothing as a part of his daily routine. From his youth to ...

Tatiana Denning

A statue of Fan Chunren.

The Virtue of Repaying Kindness: Confucius Sells His Horse to Repay a Favor

The virtue of repaying kindness has been passed down through the ages. Generations upon generations have been educated about the value of this timeless principle. Untold stories have been told of people who engaged in repaying the kindness extended to them. Such is the story of Confucius and his disciples’ acts of kindness being rewarded ...

Emma Lu

Brown horse with the golden sun at sunset as the background.

A $50 Test Reveals People’s Honesty

A TV program called What Would You Do? has become very popular among American viewers and is hosted by John Quiñones. The aim of the program appears to test, to a certain extent, the honesty of the general public, whereby the staff will create a minor incident to see how ordinary people treat or handle ...

Emma Lu

A U.S. $50 note.

How Virtue Can Bless Future Generations of a Family

A lasting legacy is defined by two things, it’s historic impact and the moral virtue it represents. Humans are forgetful in nature, and in a process of constant self discovery. Legacies are like memories that remind us of our perils, our potentials and of our highest ideals.  Introduction to the lasting legacy of Fan Zhongyan ...

Hermann Rohr

A feng shui compass on a red background, symbolizing the power of harmony with nature and qi.

Shaping Destiny Through Character: The Ultimate Ticket to Wealth

During the reign of Emperor Wen of Han, Deng Tong was a highly favored courtier due to his high character. The Emperor was especially fond of Deng, who often accompanied him in his carriage and was even permitted to share the same sleeping quarters with him. At this time, a famous diviner named Xu Fu ...

Mikel Davis

Potted plant with a sign stuck in it that reads 'ticket to wealth.'

The Blessings of a Kind Heart: How a Merchant Went from Near-Disaster to Riches

The ancient Chinese text “I Ching” states: “A family that accumulates good deeds will have a surplus of good fortune.” This principle holds that individuals who consistently do good deeds and cultivate moral virtues will not only overcome difficulties, but will also bring blessings to their descendants. The following story is a true reflection of ...

Tatiana Denning

Woman holding a red heart cut out of construction paper.

The Importance of Honesty: Lessons From Three Stories

In a world where shortcuts and quick fixes often seem tempting, the virtue of honesty remains a cornerstone of character. The following three stories underscore the importance of honesty, reminding us that honesty is not only a moral duty, but also a pathway to unexpected rewards. 3 results of honesty 1. A soldier’s surprise victory ...

Max Lu

Signpost with the words 'honesty,' 'integrity,' and 'ethics' on it.

Guiding Integrity: The Upright and Honest Advisors of Ancient China

In ancient China’s history, wisdom and integrity were paramount virtues. Rulers often sought counsel when faced with perplexing matters, including unsettling dreams and omens. Those endowed with good character, like Yan Zi and Gongsun Sheng, diligently fulfilled their duties, prioritizing their responsibilities over personal gain or safety. Yan Zi’s wise counsel and integrity Duke Jing ...

Mikel Davis

Illustration of a man dressed in the robes of an ancient Chinese official.

Integrity Above All: 3 Stories of Ancient China’s Upright Officials

In the annals of Chinese history, the legacy of integrity and righteousness has been long cherished and revered. Tales of principled officials who stood firm in the face of temptation and upheld the virtues of ethical governance have been passed down through generations, serving as moral compasses for both the rulers and the ruled. These ...

Emma Lu

Liu Tongxun.