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Translation of Zhenguan Politicians, Lessons for Monarch and Minister VI
It has been difficult since ancient times to achieve tacit understanding between monarch and minister. This is like throwing a stone into the water and letting it follow the flowing water, which can only be met once in a thousand years; And if you let the running water obey the stone, it will happen all the time.
"throwing stones at water" is a profound way of dealing with people described in Wei Zhi's letter to Emperor Taizong. First, "it is difficult since ancient times when the monarch and the minister met". Wei Zhi's remarks revealed the hierarchical feudal barrier relationship between emperors and ministers. Although they belong to the same camp as ordinary people, there is a gap between the monarch and his subjects that cannot be bridged in feudal society. Therefore, since ancient times, there have been really few tacit understanding between the monarch and his subjects, which actually shows how important it is to realize the tacit understanding between the monarch and his subjects. The second is "throwing stones at water". Wei Zhi used this very vivid metaphor, pointing out that the harmonious relationship between the monarch and his subjects is not enough just by the ministers around the emperor's ass. Therefore, it is even more necessary for the emperor to put down his airs, straighten his mind, take the initiative to accept the advice of his courtiers, and be obedient, so as to avoid the passive situation that his courtiers are wishful thinking but ultimately have no results. The third is "throwing stones with water". Wei Zhi's words imply that it is the foundation of the country for Emperor Taizong to conform to the people, and at the same time, officials should establish the consciousness of sharing worries for the country and dare to remonstrate with the emperor, so that the tacit understanding between the monarch and the minister can be formed. Fourth, the huge contrast between "throwing stones at water" and "throwing stones with water" also contains advanced ideas on how to explore and cultivate talents, suggesting that emperors adopt different perspectives and judge talents differently. Modern enterprises all emphasize the harmony and friendship of the whole team, but in reality, the relationship between employees in some enterprises is often malodorous. Although leaders try to improve it, the effect is often not good. If we can fully learn from the above concepts of "throwing stones at water" and "throwing stones with water", we should be able to get more inspiration. In addition to having contact at work, managers should talk to employees as much as possible in their spare time without affecting each other's work, so as to understand the background of employees. At the same time, guide young employees, develop their sound professional outlook and outlook on life, and form a harmonious relationship between leaders and employees.