Taking Delight in Having One's Mistakes Pointed Out

(Clearwisdom.net) Being "delighted to have one's mistakes pointed out by others," is an ancient Chinese saying that embodies the very essence of Chinese traditional culture. It bespeaks of cultivators of the past who accepted people's criticism and opinions and used them to correct and improve themselves.

Emperor Shun, a 23^rd-22^nd century BC leader of ancient China, made a practice of being delighted to have his mistakes pointed out. Under his leadership, he ushered in a new era of effective governance and harmonious societal reforms.

He ordered various grain seeds to be sown based on calculated seasonal conditions. He introduced irrigation by constructing ditches and drainage systems. He dredged rivers, controlled floods, and appointed capable officials to oversee landscaping, agriculture, education, justice, and other important aspects of the society.

Emperor Shun became the lord of the largest league of tribes in central China. Historically, these tribes were thought to be one of the first ancestors of Chinese civilization to emphasize virtue and the adherence to the laws of nature.

Mencius, a Chinese philosopher who was arguably the most famous Confucian after Confucius himself, taught his students about Emperor Shun, Confucius, and Zilu, a disciple of Confucius, saying they were three exemplars of how to correctly face criticism and improve oneself.

Mencius told his disciples: "Emperor Shun saluted others when they pointed out his shortcomings. He had a remarkable ability to involve others while performing good deeds. He never stopped learning from others and improving himself. In this way, Emperor Shun was able to benefit numerous tribes through his virtuous actions. From his humble beginnings as a farmer, pottery craftsman, then fisherman, Shun worked his way up to become emperor. For his whole life he remained open to learning from others."

Li Shimin, known as Emperor Taizong of Tang, 599-649, was also a benevolent sage-like emperor. During his Tang Dynasty reign (627-649), China reached its peak in power and prestige, known as the Golden Years of Zhenguan.

One day in the eighteenth year of the Zhenguan era, Emperor Taizong convened with various ministers in the imperial court. He said: "I would like to listen to your comments regarding my mistakes. Please just focus on my mistakes and speak freely."

Changsun Wuji and several other ministers chimed in, "Your Majesty carries out education and change with mercy and virtue. The world lives in peace and enjoys prosperity. What mistakes can there possibly be?"

Li Ji, a middle ranking official disagreed, "Your Majesty's sage-like virtue is indeed as immense as Changsun Wuji explained. However, recently someone submitted a written suggestion which did not please Your Majesty. Your Majesty scolded and interrogated the official in front of everyone. The official stepped back in line overcome with shame. This approach does not encourage officials to offer constructive criticism." Taizong was pleased and said, "What you said is correct. Mark my word that I will correct it!"

History serves as a mirror. Upon hearing others point out our mistakes, we need to face these mistakes head-on and have the fortitude and courage to learn from others. Only by becoming a good listener can we become wise. Only by correcting our mistakes, practicing good deeds, and constantly focusing inward, can we have a mature understanding of ourselves and of the world around us.

October 6, 2010