ExclusiveTraditional Chinese Tales：The Servant Whose Loyalty and Righteousness Moved Heaven

The Servant Whose Loyalty and Righteousness Moved Heaven Li Shan, a native of Yuyang County during the Eastern Han Dynasty, originally was a servant in a wealthy family and later became a county governor. Li Shan was initially a servant in the household of Li Yuan. Unfortunately, Li Yuan's entire family died from an epidemic, leaving immense family wealth only to a newborn baby named Li Shu. The servants in the household conspired to kill Li Shu to seize his inheritance. Upon hearing this, Li Shan hastily held Li Shu in his arms and fled into the deep mountains of a neighboring county on that very night. He fed the baby, changed his diapers, and meticulously looked after him. Li Shan often slept on damp bedding, giving dry spots to the baby. Despite Li Shu's young age, Li Shan treated him with the same respect as he would his old master, always kneeling to seek guidance and showing utmost reverence. Deeply moved by his loyalty and kindness, the neighbors followed and brought a positive change to the local community. When Li Shu reached the age of 10, Li Shan brought him back home and restored the family's fortunes. He also reported to the authorities the servants who had conspired to kill Li Shu, ensuring they faced appropriate punishment. The governor of Xiachu County strongly recommended Li Shan to the emperor. Emperor Liu Shu first appointed him as the prince's servant and later appointed him as the governor of Jernan. All who knew about this story said this is because Li Shan's loyalty and righteousness are recognized by heaven. On his way to take up his new position, Li Shan passed by his old master's grave. When it was still over a mile away, he took off his official robe, knelt in homage, pulled weeds, cleaned the tomb, and burned incense. Sobbing, he said to the tomb, old master, old madam, may you rest in peace. He stayed for several days before departing for his new assignment. The story of Li Shan later became a classic example of moral education in ancient times, inspiring kindness in people for thousands of years and touching hearts of generations after generations.