The Three Teachings Converge into One: The Path of the Mortal and the Saintly is the Same

Poetry:

The tradition of farming and reading has been passed down through generations, and the fragrance of ink fills the courtyard in the gentle breeze.

The truth of moderation is naturally understood; a benevolent heart shines like the sun.

In late autumn in Jiangnan, the drizzle is most lingering. The light, drizzling rain, like silver threads, gently shrouds Qingxi Town in Pingjiang Prefecture in a thin mist. The white walls and black tiles of the town gleam warmly from the autumn rain, the bluestone paths are covered with a thin layer of soft moss, and the Qingxi River is dappled with fine raindrops, its surface rippling gently, reflecting the sparse shadows of willows on both banks. The wind carries the lingering fragrance of old osmanthus, mixed with the fresh scent of earth and vegetable patches, drifting over winding stone bridges, through narrow alleys, and gently settling into the Su family courtyard in the east of town, creating a tranquil haven untouched by the hustle and bustle of the world.

Having witnessed the growth of spring and summer, the Su family courtyard remains simple and unadorned. Within the small space enclosed by a low wall, the two old osmanthus trees stand ever more vigorous. Though past their flowering season, their branches and leaves remain lush and green, with drooping branches catching raindrops that rustle and fall with the wind, splashing tiny patterns on the bluestone ground. Nourished by the autumn rain, the vegetable patch in the corner is thriving with green vegetables and radishes, their leaves glistening with dew, bursting with vitality. On the stone table, the yellowed set of Confucian classics still sits, the Analects, Mencius, and Doctrine of the Mean neatly stacked, the scent of ink mingling with the aroma of grass and trees, slowly spreading in the damp autumn breeze. In the corner of the courtyard, the ancestral bronze seal leans against the withered tree, occasionally flashing a faint light with the rain, quietly merging with the energy of heaven and earth, awaiting its destined moment.

After observing his inner self in the marketplace and seeking enlightenment by the lamplight, Su Qingxuan's cultivation became increasingly steady and harmonious. His days, like the chimes of an ancient clock, were precise and orderly. Every day at the crack of dawn, he would rise on time, wash his hands and tidy his clothes, and sweep the courtyard—his brush tip was light, and every movement was humble and measured. Then he would burn incense and sit quietly, practicing breathing exercises according to the "Confucian Mind Method," drawing the pure energy of heaven and earth into his body, making the upright and righteous energy in his dantian increasingly mellow and warm. He would recite classics in the morning, practice calligraphy during the day, observe his mind and reflect on his body in the evening, and sit quietly to seek enlightenment at night, never ceasing his practice from dawn till dusk, without the slightest slackening.

The boy was nearly nine years old. Though still somewhat thin and childlike, he stood tall and straight. The childish innocence had long since faded from his brow, replaced by a dignified composure far beyond his years. He wore a faded coarse blue robe, the collar and cuffs worn but neatly starched, which accentuated his handsome face and clear, bright eyes. He exuded an aura of uprightness and tranquility befitting a Confucian scholar. Every movement, every word, and every action subtly conformed to the principles of propriety and morality, revealing the nascent form of the Doctrine of the Mean, devoid of any impatience, stubbornness, or rigidity.

The villagers of Qingxi Town had long forgotten the gossip about the broken engagement, and their gazes towards Su Qingxuan were now filled with heartfelt respect and admiration. In the streets and alleys, at teahouses and bridges, whenever the young master of the Su family was mentioned, everyone gave him a thumbs up: "Su Qingxuan, young man, possesses the demeanor of a gentleman, humble yet resolute, born into poverty yet aspiring to the ways of the sages. With such character and bearing, he is destined for greatness!" The women who used to love gossiping would fall silent and smile when he passed by; farmers working in the fields would immediately rise to return his bow; even the town's most mischievous children would quiet down and obediently bow in his presence.

Human nature is always subtle; if you are weak, you will be bullied; if you are strong, you will be respected; if your heart is upright, no one will dare to insult you. Su Qingxuan established himself with virtue, showed others his integrity, and treated others with benevolence. In just over half a year, he won over the hearts of the entire Qingxi Town with his Confucian scholar's integrity.

The light rain had just stopped that day, and the autumn wind tore a gap in the thick clouds, allowing the warm autumn sun to shine through and cast golden rays that illuminated the courtyard. The moisture in the air was softened by the warm sun, the fragrance of grass and trees in the air became even stronger, the raindrops on the old osmanthus branches glistened in the sun, and the green vegetables in the vegetable patch stretched out their leaves, full of vitality.

Su Wenyuan had just finished teaching the town's children and tidied up his books when he slowly walked into the courtyard. He saw Su Qingxuan squatting beside the vegetable patch, his fingertips lightly brushing against a few slightly yellowed grass leaves. His expression was focused and peaceful, his eyes filled with contemplation, exuding the composure of a young man.

"Qingxuan, what are you looking at here?" Su Wenyuan walked slowly closer, his voice gentle and calm, with the composure unique to a schoolteacher.

Upon hearing this, Su Qingxuan rose and quickly bowed respectfully, displaying impeccable manners: "Father, I observe the withering and flourishing of plants. Spring brings forth life, summer fosters growth, autumn brings decay, and winter brings dormancy; the four seasons follow their order, and all things have their constant course. This is true of grass, and it is true of people. All things in the world are subject to rise and fall, increase and decrease. Is there any constant and unchanging principle?"

Since his enlightenment, he has often observed the profound principles of heaven and earth in the smallest plants and trees. He observes the sprouting grass to know its resilience, observes the withering of flowers to know its acceptance of fate, and observes the fallen leaves returning to their roots to know their true nature. At this moment, seeing the autumn grass turning yellow, he couldn't help but ask this question, wanting to explore the essence of cultivation.

A hint of approval flashed in Su Wenyuan's eyes. He slowly walked to the stone table and sat down, beckoning his son to come closer. His expression became even more solemn: "You are able to observe the laws of heaven and earth in the withering and flourishing of plants, and to explore the essential principles of the great way in the smallest details. Your character is commendable. Today, I will explain to you in detail the most profound yet most accessible principle of Confucianism, the ultimate truth that one should never leave in self-cultivation and helping the world, which is the Doctrine of the Mean."

Su Qingxuan immediately composed himself, sat upright with his knees together, placed his hands on his knees, and listened attentively with utmost respect. Since he began studying the "Confucian Mind Method" and comprehending the origins of Confucianism, he had often heard his father mention the word "moderation," but had never heard his father explain it in detail. He knew that this was the core essence of Confucianism and dared not be negligent in the slightest.

"Many people misunderstand the Doctrine of the Mean, thinking it means mediocrity and compromise, but this is a great mistake." Su Wenyuan tapped the stone table lightly with his fingertips, his voice clear and resonant. "The Doctrine of the Mean means being impartial and unbiased, neither excessive nor deficient, maintaining a righteous heart, acting peacefully, conforming to the order of heaven and earth, and following the nature of all things. This is the foundation of the operation of heaven and earth, and also the basis for the Confucian scholar's self-cultivation."

He glanced up at the clear sky outside the courtyard, then back down at the vegetable patch and the old osmanthus tree inside, and slowly explained: "The Doctrine of the Mean says: 'Before the feelings of pleasure, anger, sorrow, and joy are aroused, it is called equilibrium; when they are aroused and all attain their proper measure, it is called harmony. Equilibrium is the great foundation of the world; harmony is the universal path of the world.' When a person's emotions are not yet aroused, they are clear and bright, neither biased nor extreme, which is 'equilibrium'; when emotions arise and words and actions are in accordance with propriety and propriety, neither biased nor excessive, which is 'harmony'. Heaven and earth operate in harmony, all things grow in harmony, the human heart is at peace in harmony, and the world is at peace in harmony."

"The superior man upholds the mean, thus his heart is upright, his conduct is proper, his temperament is harmonious, and his will is firm; the inferior man deviates from the mean, thus he is extreme, reckless, greedy, and stubborn. Observe the affairs of the world: those who curry favor with the powerful lose the mean, thus they betray trust and abandon righteousness; those who are competitive and eager to win lose the mean, thus they only bring trouble upon themselves; those who are stubborn and obsessive lose the mean, thus their hearts are troubled and their spirits are disturbed. Only by upholding the mean and harmony can one stand between heaven and earth, without shame in one's heart or in the Way."

Su Qingxuan listened quietly, his mind racing as past experiences flooded back, confirming his father's words one by one—

Faced with Shen Wanshan's abuse of power to annul the engagement and humiliate the family by throwing money at him, he remained neither angry nor resentful, neither humble nor arrogant, and stayed true to himself without being extreme; this is what it means to maintain the middle way.

Faced with gossip and sympathetic comments from his neighbors, he remained calm and fearless, without complaint or resentment, and steadfastly upheld his original aspirations, which is to maintain the middle way.

Faced with the rich and poor, noble and lowly, good and evil, warmth and coldness of the people, he was neither arrogant nor contemptuous, but maintained a calm mind to observe all things, which is to maintain the middle way.

Faced with the profound wisdom of the hermit in the rain and the simple truths of the old man at the ferry, he remained unperturbed, neither arrogant nor impatient, but with a respectful heart, he comprehended the truth, which is to maintain the middle way.

It turns out that through the trials and tribulations of life, and through observing one's own heart and seeking enlightenment, I have unknowingly come to align myself with the Doctrine of the Mean, though I have never explicitly stated it or fully comprehended it.

Thinking of this, Su Qingxuan's eyes flashed with a sharp light. He bowed and asked softly, "Father, according to this, the Doctrine of the Mean is what the old man at the ferry said: 'Each is content with its place, fulfills its responsibility, and guards its heart.' It is also like these withered grasses, following the seasons, not clinging to rise and fall, impartial and unbiased, going with the flow, is that right?"

Upon hearing this, Su Wenyuan smiled and stroked his long beard, his eyes filled with astonishment and relief. The Doctrine of the Mean is profound and subtle; even seasoned Confucian scholars, well-versed in literature, spend their entire lives trying to comprehend it, yet may not even grasp its essence. His own son, not yet nine years old, having only experienced the minor tribulations of the mortal world, had already grasped the core of the Doctrine of the Mean in a single sentence. Such innate talent and understanding were truly a gift from heaven, a rare find throughout history! Could it truly be a descendant of his ancestors?

"Exactly! Absolutely!" Su Wenyuan's voice trembled slightly, filled with immense satisfaction. "My son, your talent is unparalleled, your character extraordinary. Even with all my life's learning, I cannot surpass you! The Doctrine of the Mean is about fulfilling one's duty, following nature, staying true to oneself, and not neglecting anything. All things in heaven and earth follow this principle, and Confucian scholars also follow this principle in cultivating themselves, managing their families, governing the state, and bringing peace to the world!"

He leaned forward, speaking earnestly and earnestly, each word a reminder: "Qingxuan, you must remember that moderation is the principle of being a person—neither too rigid nor too yielding, neither too humble nor too arrogant; moderation is the wisdom of dealing with the world—neither too greedy nor attached, neither contentious nor resentful; moderation is also the foundation of spiritual cultivation—when the heart is impartial, the spirit is upright; when actions are unbiased, the Way is achieved. Excessive rigidity leads to breakage, excessive yielding to ruin, excessive joy to disorder, and excessive sorrow to damage the spirit. Only by maintaining balance and tranquility can one be immune to all harms and undaunted by all difficulties."

"To cultivate the Confucian mind and nurture one's righteous spirit, one must also take the Doctrine of the Mean as the guiding principle. One's spirit should not be too strong, for excessive strength leads to restlessness; nor should it be too weak, for weakness leads to decline. Only by being moderate, peaceful, gentle, and enduring can one nourish the body and mind and solidify the foundation of the Way. This is the only way for Confucianism to cultivate one's spirit."

Su Qingxuan stood respectfully with his hands at his sides, engraving every word of his father's speech into his heart, remembering each syllable without daring to forget the slightest. He slowly closed his eyes, comparing the Doctrine of the Mean with the "Confucian Mind Method," integrating all his past insights, actions, and feelings. The righteous energy within his dantian, already warm and mellow, was now nourished by the principles of the Doctrine of the Mean, becoming even more harmonious and peaceful, neither harsh nor fierce, neither stagnant nor flowing, like a clear stream, gently circulating through his meridians, bringing comfort to his entire body and clarity to his mind.

Just then, a gentle breeze wafted in from the corner of the courtyard, passing through the laurel leaves, over the vegetable patch, around the stone table, and brushing against the young man's blue robe, penetrating straight into his heart. The breeze was refreshing and cleansing, without a trace of worldly noise, like the gentle caress of the Great Way, washing away all distracting thoughts. Su Qingxuan felt completely at ease, his mind clear and lucid. The obscurities and blockages in his past cultivation instantly became clear. The principles of the Confucian Mind Method and the Doctrine of the Mean merged and intersected, marking another crucial step forward in his cultivation.

Seeing his son meditating with his eyes closed, Su Wenyuan noticed the increasingly refined Confucian aura emanating from him, and the natural, dignified, and peaceful air about him. He knew that his son had grasped the essence of the Doctrine of the Mean and that he only needed to refine his skills gradually to achieve success. Overjoyed, Su Wenyuan remained silent, sitting quietly to the side to guard this tranquil space for enlightenment.

After a long while, Su Qingxuan slowly opened his eyes. The light in his eyes was restrained, calm as an abyss. His temperament became increasingly harmonious and transparent, like a piece of unpolished jade returning to its original state, like a clear spring. He bowed deeply to Su Wenyuan, his tone firm and respectful: "Your son thanks Father for his teachings. I have come to understand the principle of moderation. In this life, I will uphold a righteous heart, walk the path of peace, without bias or excess."

Su Wenyuan helped his son up, gazing at the simple, humble courtyard, the old osmanthus tree and vegetable patch, and the Confucian classics on the table. His expression was solemn, and he spoke earnestly, "Qingxuan, the Su family has been engaged in farming and studying for generations. We have no vast wealth, no high-ranking official positions, and no overwhelming power. We have only the four words 'farming and studying' passed down through generations, unchanged for many years. These four words are the root and soul of the Su family, and they are also the foundation for your conduct and cultivation."

"The farmer tills the land to support himself, working diligently and earning his own living, upholding the virtues of a humble family; the scholar reads the classics to nourish his mind, understand principles, distinguish right from wrong, and maintain the integrity of a Confucian scholar. Physical well-being leads to mental well-being; mental well-being leads to the attainment of the Way. The two characters 'farming' and 'reading' contain the wisdom for establishing oneself in life, the original aspiration for self-cultivation and helping the world, and the integrity of not coveting wealth or fearing poverty."

"When our family fell into decline, and I failed the imperial examinations repeatedly, I never abandoned the principles of farming and studying. When the Shen family used their power to break off the engagement, my Su family suffered humiliation, but we still upheld our integrity in farming and studying. You were born into poverty and grew up in a scholarly environment, so you must uphold this family tradition. In the future, when you leave Qingxi Town, travel the world, and experience life, whether you are in poverty or wealth, or coerced by power, you must always remember: poverty cannot sway your will, wealth cannot corrupt your heart, and power cannot subdue your principles. Maintain moderation in your heart, be kind and benevolent in your conduct, and live up to the family tradition of farming and studying, and live up to the Confucian sages."

His words carried immense weight, embodying his father's expectations, the legacy of generations of the Su family, and the Confucian ideal of serving the world.

Su Qingxuan knelt again, kowtowing deeply to Su Wenyuan, his forehead touching the ground, his expression extremely solemn. The young man's clear voice echoed throughout the courtyard, each word resounding and powerful: "Your son, Su Qingxuan, swears to faithfully follow your father's teachings, to inherit the Su family's tradition of scholarship and farming, to uphold the Doctrine of the Mean, to cultivate the Confucian mind, to establish myself with benevolence, to treat others with kindness, and to help the world with magnanimity. Even if I face countless hardships and tribulations in this life, I will never succumb to the spirit of my scholarly family, never betray the teachings of the sages, and never waver in my initial sincerity!"

With vows made and minds made firm, the Confucian heart is steadfast and the foundation of the Way is solid.

Beneath the table in the corner of the courtyard, where incense and candles were placed for offerings, the ancestral bronze seal flashed faintly, and the withered wood also shimmered with a pale white light. A wisp of pure, ethereal energy drifted on the breeze, merging into Su Qingxuan's body, seamlessly blending with his Confucian and moderate spirit, silently nourishing this innate spiritual root. The old osmanthus branches swayed gently in the wind, as if nodding in approval; the green vegetables in the vegetable patch stood tall and verdant, as if witnessing a vow; the fragrance of ink wafted from the books on the stone table, as if echoing this sincerity.

At the kitchen doorway, Madam Liu held a freshly steamed multigrain bun, quietly gazing at the father and son in the courtyard. Her eyes were slightly moist, but her face radiated a gentle and contented smile. Throughout her life, she had been virtuous, managing the household, spinning and weaving, transforming their humble courtyard into a warm and inviting place. She sought neither great wealth nor high status, only the peace of her family and the success of her son. Seeing her son, so young yet possessing such spirit and ambition, she knew this child was destined not to be confined to a small town in Jiangnan. His future lay across vast mountains and rivers, the boundless world, and the path to sainthood.

She quietly placed the steamed buns beside the stone table, not wanting to disturb the father and son, and tiptoed back to the kitchen to continue her housework, guarding the warmest human warmth in this small courtyard.

As dusk falls and the autumn sun sets, the evening glow paints half the sky crimson, bathing the white walls and gray tiles of Qingxi Town, along with the stone bridge over the Qingxi River, in a warm orange-red hue. Wisps of smoke rise from the chimneys of every household, mingling with the aroma of cooked food and drifting through the streets and alleys; farmers return home from the fields, hoes in hand, humming rustic tunes; women gather laundry by the stream, their laughter echoing; shepherd boys ride their oxen, playing their flutes, slowly making their way back to the village—a scene of peaceful, serene life, utterly comforting.

Su Wenyuan stood up, took Su Qingxuan's hand, and strolled slowly in the courtyard. The afterglow of the setting sun shone on the father and son, warm and peaceful, their shadows stretched long, intertwining with the shadows of the old osmanthus tree and the vegetable patch, becoming the most touching scenery in the Jiangnan water town.

Looking at the everyday life before him, at the smoke from cooking fires, the sunset, the returning travelers, and the flowing water, Su Qingxuan felt a sense of peace and tranquility in his heart.

He will also gradually put into practice the true meaning of "the great way is in the human world".

He still doesn't understand the Dao above the Nine Heavens, the Dao of the Immortal Realm.

But what he now understands is that there is a way of life in the ordinary things, like every meal, every breath, every word, and every household's everyday life.

The Doctrine of the Mean is not found in books or words, but in the heart and in actions. Upholding a righteous heart, acting peacefully, being content with one's duties of farming and reading, and fulfilling one's responsibility to help the world—this is the Doctrine of the Mean, this is Confucianism and Taoism.

He looked down at his hands, at the blue robe he wore, and at the simple objects in the courtyard. There was no inferiority complex, no anxiety, only steadfastness and peace. What did it matter if he came from a poor family? What did it matter if he was poor? What did it matter if he suffered humiliation? Upholding the tradition of farming and reading, maintaining a moderate mindset, and adhering to the integrity of a Confucian scholar—these were the most precious treasures in the world, the most solid foundation for spiritual cultivation.

Within his dantian, his righteous spirit and the Doctrine of the Mean merged, becoming ever more mellow and harmonious; in his heart, his ambition to save the world and the precepts of farming and reading aligned, becoming ever more steadfast and sincere. In the autumn sun of Jiangnan and under his father's teachings, the young man's Confucian heart became ever more unbreakable and ever more clear and bright.

It is:

The family tradition of farming and reading is inherited from ancestors; a pure heart and enlightenment are in harmony with the doctrine of the mean.

With a heart that holds the peace and tranquility of heaven and earth, every step and every movement becomes a merit.