Relentless Pursuit: Confucius and the Wisdom of Determined Effort

Zilu stayed at Shimen (1). Chenmen (2) said, “Where are you from?” Zilu said, “From Confucius’s.” Chenmen said, “Is he the one who knows he can’t do it but still does it?”

[Notes] (1) Shimen: a place name. The outer gate of the capital of the state of Lu. (2) Chenmen: the person who guarded the gate in the morning.

[Translation] Zilu stayed at Shimen at night. The gatekeeper asked, “Where are you from?” Zilu said, “From Confucius.” The gatekeeper said, “Is that the person who knows he can’t do it but still does it?”

[Commentary] “Knowing that it is impossible and still doing it” is the main principle of being a person. People should have a little perseverance in their pursuit, and many things are achieved through hard work and struggle. Confucius’ “knowing that it is impossible and doing it” reflects his tireless and persistent spirit. From the words of the gatekeeper, we can also see the comments of ordinary people on Confucius at the time.

In the annals of Chinese philosophy, Confucius stands out not just for his profound teachings but also for his unyielding dedication to his principles. A telling anecdote about Confucius highlights this dedication and reveals insights into his character through the eyes of those who encountered him.

The story begins with Zi Lu, a devoted disciple of Confucius, spending a night at Shimen, a gate of the ancient capital of Lu. As he rested, the gatekeeper inquired about his origin. Zi Lu responded, “I come from Confucius.” The gatekeeper then remarked, “Isn’t he the one who undertakes tasks knowing they are impossible?”

The Essence of Relentless Pursuit

Confucius’ approach, as reflected in this anecdote, encapsulates the essence of “knowing it’s impossible yet still striving.” This idea is not merely about blind perseverance but about the spirit of relentless pursuit and dedication to one’s ideals, regardless of the apparent obstacles.

Understanding the Remark: The gatekeeper’s comment, “knowing it’s impossible yet still striving,” sheds light on Confucius’ unwavering commitment to his mission. It underscores a fundamental principle in Confucian thought: perseverance in the face of adversity. Confucius’ life and teachings emphasize the value of persistence and the importance of pursuing one’s goals with unwavering resolve.

Philosophical Insight: This principle is deeply embedded in Confucian philosophy, which values continuous effort and dedication. It reflects the belief that true progress and understanding often come through persistent effort and a willingness to face challenges head-on, even when success seems unlikely.

Historical Context: The gatekeeper’s comment also provides a glimpse into how Confucius was perceived by ordinary people of his time. It reveals that while Confucius’ determination was recognized and respected, it was also viewed with a sense of incredulity. This reaction highlights the challenges Confucius faced in his pursuit of his philosophical ideals.

Modern Relevance

The story of Confucius and the gatekeeper offers timeless wisdom relevant to today’s challenges. In our fast-paced, result-driven world, the value of perseverance and dedication cannot be overstated. Confucius’ example encourages us to embrace determination and resilience, even when the path to our goals seems fraught with difficulties.

Application in Daily Life: Embracing Confucian ideals involves recognizing that success often requires sustained effort and a willingness to tackle seemingly insurmountable obstacles. This mindset is crucial for personal and professional growth, as it fosters a spirit of resilience and adaptability.

Encouraging a Growth Mindset: The story encourages a growth mindset, where challenges are seen as opportunities for growth rather than barriers to success. By adopting this approach, individuals can navigate difficulties with greater confidence and determination.

Confucius’ teachings and the anecdote of Zi Lu at Shimen provide profound insights into the nature of perseverance and dedication. They remind us that true commitment involves striving toward our goals despite challenges and setbacks. In reflecting on this story, we gain not only an appreciation for Confucius’ enduring influence but also practical wisdom for pursuing our own aspirations with relentless resolve.

By understanding and applying these principles, modern readers can draw inspiration from Confucius’ example and apply these timeless values to their own lives, fostering resilience and a spirit of unyielding pursuit.