During the late Han Dynasty, while Cao Cao controlled the court and Sun Quan ruled the east, Liu Bei, a royal descendant, sought a wise counselor. Hearing of Zhuge Liang’s brilliance, he visited the recluse’s thatched cottage with his sworn brothers, Guan Yu and Zhang Fei. The first time, Zhuge was away. The second, they braved a snowstorm, only to find him gone again. Zhang Fei wanted to force the issue, but Liu Bei left a heartfelt letter instead.
Determined, Liu Bei fasted for three days before a third visit. His brothers doubted the effort, but Liu Bei stood quietly outside while Zhuge slept, waiting until he awoke. Moved by such sincerity, Zhuge Liang agreed to help, eventually guiding Liu Bei to found the Shu Han kingdom.
This story, known as “Three Visits to the Thatched Cottage,” teaches that true sincerity outlasts setbacks. Not every effort yields immediate results, but persistence rooted in genuine respect eventually opens doors. In life, patience and humility often matter more than talent. When we seek with an open heart, the right opportunity will finally arise.