Lü Meng was a brave young soldier, but he seldom read. Sun Quan urged him to study, yet Lü Meng claimed he had no time amid military duties. Sun Quan replied, “I studied the classics and histories in my youth. Even now, I read widely and gain much. If I can do it, so can you.” Inspired, Lü Meng devoted himself to learning and soon surpassed even seasoned scholars.
Later, Lu Su visited and was astonished by Lü Meng’s insights. “You are no longer the same man I once knew,” he said. Lü Meng replied, “A scholar who has been away for three days must be looked at with new eyes.”
True growth begins when we set aside old assumptions and embrace learning. No matter your age or role, it is never too late to transform. Let Lü Meng’s story remind us: the quickest way to earn respect is to keep improving yourself.