Response to Emperors (3)

1 Tian Gen traveled along to Yin Yang. The day when he walked beside Liao Shui River, he happened to meet the widely renowned sage – Mr. Nameless. Tian Gen took the chance to consult him.

2 Coming up to Mr. Nameless, he asked, “What’s the right way of governance?”

3 Mr. Nameless was sitting in meditation. Doing a scowl, he said sullenly, “You, vulgar guy. To be here, you still remember the boring questions? Get away! Don’t bother me.

4 Moment ago I was sitting in meditation, what a happy time it was! At first I played with the Creator. Then I rode on the bird of Tao to fly out of the universe and toured around the realm of nihility in the boundless wild field. What the beautiful scenery! Why did you raise such boring question to bother me when I was tasting such a wonderful environment?”

5 Tian Gen knew well the odd temper of these men of perfect practice. If you don’t insist on the answer, they won’t tell you easily. Hence Tian Gen still stood there and had no intention to leave; it seemed he would not go until he got the answer.

6 Mr. Nameless realized that the guy wouldn’t leave if he didn’t answer. To dismiss the nuisance, he said, “As a leader, he must live in a simple life, being indifferent to fame, position, and wealth; and keep with a sound, tranquil and peaceful heart. He must do as a fair referee and give his people a full play to adapt themselves to the environment. The leader should never intervene in the details and does helping and benefiting to the contrary. If he could do so, the country would be in peace and order by itself.”