Guan and Bao
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When his prime minister Guan Zhong was seriously ill, Duke Huan asked him who could be his successor.
“Who do you have in mind?” Guan Zhong asked.
“Bao Shuya.”
“No,” Guan Zhong objected even though Bao was a great friend of his. “Bao Shuya is an upright and honest man, but he keeps away from those who are not as capable as he is. If he hears about someone’s fault, he will not forget. If you appoint him prime minister, you’ll find him rather intolerant. He won’t get along with other people. It won’t be long before you find him very annoying.”
“Who would you recommend?”
“Xi Peng would be a better choice. He is a man of character. He is respectful of those above him and friendly to those below him. Despite his excellences, he is never condescending. He seeks to promote virtue by example. I believe Xi Peng would get along with other people well and do a good job for you.”
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Two Weakness
Wise Proverbs
- To appoint people on their merits.
- 任人唯贤。
- Friendship between the virtuous is as pure as water; the intimacy between inferiors cann be oversweet like wine.
- 君子之交淡如水，小人之交甘若醴。
- I cannot be your friend and your flatterer too.
- 朋友不能阿谀奉承。
Editor Says:
To the extent that generosity and tolerance are inborn qualities, leadership is a natural gift.