Buzz
While Tào Tháo, Lưu Bị, Tôn Quyền spent their lives battling for supremacy, in the end, it fell into the hands of Tư Mã Ý – a frail figure yet remarkably astute, knowing exactly when to advance and when to retreat. So, what's the secret to his success? Let's explore it through the timeless and inspirational quotes by Tư Mã Ý below.
1. A person must not be cowardly, yet cannot help but acknowledge fear; one must learn to fear their adversaries while respecting them.
After the demise of Tào Duệ, Tào Sảng flaunted his power, becoming increasingly dictatorial, elevating Tư Mã Ý to the position of Deputy Chancellor, essentially aiming to control the court single-handedly. When his disciple Trọng Hội advised, 'Master, why just sit quietly in the role of Deputy Chancellor and discuss philosophies?', the purpose of his statement wasn't merely a question; it reflected his inner desire for action and his wish for Tư Mã Ý to confront Tào Sảng to reclaim their position in the court.
In response to his student's inquiry, Tư Mã Ý did nothing but brought up Dương Tu's incident to enlighten Trọng Hội: 'People must not be cowardly, yet cannot help but acknowledge fear; one must learn to fear their adversaries.' With this statement, Tư Mã Ý showcased his courage; he wasn't cowardly but rather acknowledging his fear of the enemy.
A clear example of this statement is Quan Vũ – a talented general with abilities, yet due to his disdain for enemies across the land, ultimately met an unjust end. As for Tư Mã Ý, while under Tào Tháo's command, he deeply respected his superiors. Even when facing Gia Cát Lượng, he never showed disrespect or uttered humiliating words.
2. Don't throw stones at stones; learn to bow before ignorance.
During his reign, Tào Sảng paid no attention to Tư Mã Ý, wanting to force Queen Quách out of the palace to easily control the young emperor. Tư Mã Chiêu, feeling resentful, told his father that Tào Sảng was truly going too far, as if humiliating the Tư Mã family; no matter how you look at it, this kind of anger cannot be contained.
In response to his son's remark, Tư Mã Ý remained remarkably composed: 'When compared to Gia Cát Lượng, how is Tào Sảng?' Tư Mã Chiêu replied, 'Like an ant.' Tư Mã Ý continued, 'Measuring oneself against a fool only leads to a cracked skull. Isn't that even more foolish? People in this world inevitably encounter fools; learn to bow before them.'
Looking at this period in history, it can be said that while Tào Sảng may have flaunted his power, in the end, the one who truly enjoyed life was Tư Mã Ý.
Thus, through this statement, Tư Mã Ý wishes to remind each of us: When faced with arrogant fools, provocateurs, those who plot against you, you don't necessarily have to retaliate in kind. Never stand alongside fools, for those with unjust actions will inevitably bring trouble upon themselves.
3. All I desire in this lifetime is to have my ears in the hands of my wife.
Tư Mã Ý epitomizes the man 'most afraid of his wife,' fully embracing the role of a husband who places his wife on a pedestal, evident in the frequent ear tweaking by his wife, Trương Xuân Hoa. Each pinch serves as a reminder of their days of affection.
When Tư Mã Ý first supported Tào Phi, instead of reveling in Tào Phi's mansion, he chose to stay home and have dinner with Trương Xuân Hoa. Whenever Trương Xuân Hoa got angry, Tư Mã Ý would gently coax, 'No matter how grand the national affairs are outside, palace food can never compare to home-cooked meals.' Just one sentence, yet it made Trương Xuân Hoa dedicate herself wholeheartedly to maintaining a strong rear, allowing Tư Mã Ý to focus on his important work without worry.
Thus, behind the success of a man lies a capable, gentle wife. Therefore, there's nothing wrong with placing one's wife on a pedestal.
4. Before the gods, there are no enemies, only friends and mentors.
Throughout Tư Mã Ý's life, he had two major rivals: Dương Tu and Gia Cát Lượng. However, when Dương Tu was sentenced to death by Tào Tháo, Tư Mã Ý actively requested to see him. When asked why, Tư Mã Ý said: 'Before the gods, there are no enemies, only friends and mentors.' Tào Tháo was both surprised and moved upon hearing this, further valuing Tư Mã Ý.
Towards Gia Cát Lượng or Dương Tu, individuals with intentions to harm him, Tư Mã Ý always showed great respect. It can be said that Tư Mã Ý's entire life is encapsulated in one word: 'Harmony.' After Gia Cát Lượng's death, Tư Mã Ý substituted wine with water for Khổng Minh's ritual, tears flowing freely. If not for his son reminding him of the Ngụy dynasty troops behind him, Tư Mã Ý may have knelt down in mourning.
Through this story, it reminds each of us that in the workplace, we must learn from our opponents, respect them, and appreciate them because their existence motivates us to become better, to progress.
5. To fail without feeling hurt, to fail without shame, first learn to accept failure.
Despite Tào's army outnumbering Shu's significantly, they still fell to Gia Cát Lượng's hands. Faced with this defeat, Tư Mã Ý's restless sons, burning with vengeance, heeded his words: 'Are we here to fight or to quarrel? Can one who always seeks victory truly achieve it? In battle, one must first learn to accept failure, to fail without shame, to fail without remorse, only then can one smile in the end.'
While failure may be the mother of success, few can accept it as calmly as Tư Mã Ý. Not only calmly, he saw it as a profound lesson to teach his children. Through this, he reminds us that patience with failure is the key to eventual success.
Above are the insightful and timeless words of Tư Mã Ý shared with readers. It is hoped that through these words, you can glean valuable experiences and lessons for yourself to achieve success. Wishing you enjoyable entertainment moments!!!
