Seemingly worthless or humble things that can be valuable or useful when properly understood and applied, especially in the hands of an expert.
Era:
Ancient
Frequency:
Story:
During the Tang Dynasty, the renowned literary figure Han Yu, while serving as Libationer of the Imperial College, often lectured to his students.
He emphasized that 'excellence in studies is achieved through diligence and ruined by idleness; character is formed through reflection and destroyed by thoughtlessness.'
He also urged them to engage in social practice, encouraging them to be inclusive and learn from everything. He famously stated that 'ox urine and horse puffball, even the skin of a broken drum,' all have their uses, thereby encouraging students to strengthen their learning and apply knowledge flexibly.