KONG RONG SHARES THE PEARS

Kong Rong was born in the ancient state of Lu during the late Eastern Han Dynasty. He was a twentieth-generation descendant of the great philosopher Confucius. From an early age, Kong Rong was known for his honesty, kindness, and humble nature.

When Kong Rong was only four years old, a guest brought a basket of fresh pears to his family. His father asked him to choose one first. Instead of picking the biggest and sweetest pear, Kong Rong quietly chose the smallest one.

Surprised, his father asked, “My son, why didn't you choose the largest pear?”

Kong Rong smiled and replied, “I am the youngest in the family, so I should take the smallest pear. My older brothers are older than I am, so they deserve the bigger ones.”

Everyone who heard his answer was deeply impressed. From that day on, they saw Kong Rong as a child of remarkable kindness, humility, and respect for others.