Heaven’s Goodness

During the years after Jiang Yiming was transferred from a provincial government department to the provincial capital as executive vice mayor, he faced all kinds of difficult, dangerous, and frustrating situations. His story shows that knowledge alone is not enough to make a good official; you also need talent. Talent alone is not enough either; you need real ability. And what is that? The ability to bring resources together and solve difficult problems.

Of course, ability can help you accomplish things, even great things, but it cannot guarantee that you will become a “perennial” in the political arena. To remain standing for the long haul, you also need good character and personal charisma. Only then will people willingly follow you and share your hardships.

People like this generally have principles. They won’t do things that violate their conscience, because they understand that people see what you do, and so does Heaven. A sense of reverence and caution makes them think twice before acting. They keep themselves in check and avoid crossing the line, and naturally bring things to a good conclusion.

Otherwise, if you’re petty, vindictive, self-important, and reckless, with such a narrow heart and limited vision, you won’t accomplish anything. And even if you manage to get something done, trouble won’t be far behind. How could someone like that serve as an official and bring prosperity to the people in their jurisdiction?

The author skillfully weaves the unspoken and written rules of the political world into the characters’ conversations and the story, leaving readers with plenty to reflect on.

For example, in the public sector, ability and good character are certainly important, but having the opportunity to work on a platform where you can get things done matters even more. Or consider how anything gained through luck or scheming will sooner or later be lost because of a lack of real ability. And while it’s fine to be modest as a person, you must never be modest about your work. Only by taking a high-profile approach to your work can you attract more followers and resources. And so on.

The idea that good and evil deeds bring consequences, following you like a shadow, is another message the author wants to share with readers. As the saying goes: “You reap what you sow. Every outcome may seem unexpected, but the signs were there all along. One day, a person’s good or evil will come back to them in another form.” If you act with a clear conscience toward Heaven and Earth, your life will naturally be blessed.

The author served in government for forty years and retired as a department-level official. He firmly believes: Be a good person, work diligently, do good deeds, and don’t worry about what the future holds!