Refers to a person who, through diligent study, has made remarkable progress in knowledge and abilities, no longer being the ignorant or unlearned person they once were. It is often used to express surprise and admiration for someone's significant transformation and intellectual growth.
Era:
Ancient
Frequency:
Story:
During the Three Kingdoms period, Sun Quan, who governed the six commanderies of Jiangdong, had a renowned general named Lu Meng. Although Lu Meng held an important position, he had little opportunity to study in his youth, having relied on his brother-in-law for support, and thus his knowledge was shallow and his insights limited.
One day, Sun Quan told Lu Meng and another general, Jiang Qin, 'You now bear heavy responsibilities, so you must study diligently to broaden your horizons.' Lu Meng was unconvinced, saying, 'Military affairs are so busy, I'm afraid there's no time for reading.' Sun Quan advised him, 'My military duties are far more demanding than yours. When I was young, I read many books, except for the I Ching. Since taking charge of military and political affairs, I have read numerous historical and military texts, finding them greatly beneficial. Emperor Guangwu of Han still kept a book in hand even during urgent military matters, and Cao Cao is now old yet still eager to learn. I hope you won't make excuses to avoid studying.'
Sun Quan's persuasion deeply influenced Lu Meng. From then on, he seized every moment to read extensively, quickly surpassing the knowledge of ordinary scholars.
On one occasion, Lu Su, a famous general from an aristocratic family, discussed political matters with Lu Meng. During their conversation, Lu Su often found himself at a loss for words, stumped by Lu Meng. Lu Su couldn't help but gently pat Lu Meng's back and exclaimed, 'Before, I thought my dear brother merely possessed some military strategies. Now I realize your learning is profound and your insights are brilliant; you are no longer the 'A Meng of Wu' you once were!'
Lu Meng smiled and replied, 'After three days of separation, one should view a person with new eyes. Why is your reaction so slow today, my friend?' Then, Lu Meng thoroughly analyzed the current military situation and secretly offered Lu Su three strategies. Lu Su valued these strategies highly and never leaked them.
Later, Sun Quan praised Lu Meng and others, saying, 'It's uncommon for people to remain as self-improving as Lu Meng in old age. Once one achieves wealth and honor, they should further shed their arrogance, study diligently, despise riches, and value integrity. Such conduct can serve as an example for others.'