Gentlemen's Relationships Are as Thin as Water

[PureInsight.org] Xue Rengui
was a famous general in the Tang dynasty. He studied literature as well
as martial arts since childhood. His family was poverty-stricken before
he became established. His friend Wang Maosheng frequently provided
material assistance to him and his wife.



Later, Xue Rengui joined the army and followed Emperor Tang Taizong
fighting wars for several years. Because of his illustrious military
achievements, he was conferred the title,  "Lord of Suppressing
Liao." When the civil and military officials came to offer
congratulations, he politely declined their gifts and only accepted two
jugs of "good liquor" from his friend Wang Maosheng. When his people
opened the jugs and found the jugs contained only water instead of
liquor. Xue Rengui ordered a servant to bring a big bowl and drank
three bowls of water poured from a jug. Everyone was puzzled. Xue
Rengui told them: "When I was in poverty and Wang Maosheng and his wife
always helped me. I know he is poor and sending water to me was his
kind regards. That is why I refused those lavish gifts and accepts Wang
Maosheng's water. This is called: Gentlemen's relationship is as thin
as water."



"Gentlemen's relationships are as thin as water" is regarded as the
highest realm of friendship. The relationship is found on morality and
justice, as unblemished as pure water. It doesn't mix with secular
material gifts and too-concentrated mutual affection. It refrains from
mutual exploitation and temptation. The pure, clean and honest
friendship can be maintained for a long time and is followed by noble
people.



Translated from:

http://www.xinsheng.net/xs/articles/gb/2007/2/20/39721.htm