After returning to Lu, Confucius declines a position under the usurper Yang Hu. He explains that teaching filial piety and virtue to disciples is a vital form of governance, aiming to save the world through education during turbulent times.

Confucius receives a seemingly courteous gift from the powerful Yang Hu, but recognises its hidden intent. Refusing to compromise his principles for political favour, he uses the moment to teach that true virtue cannot be bought and must wait for the right time to serve.

Confucius encounters the Qi Vessel and reveals a timeless lesson on balance and restraint. Through its tipping form, he teaches that excess leads to downfall, while moderation preserves harmony, embodying the Confucian ideal of the Doctrine of the Mean.

We concluded 2025’s Mandarin and Cultural Adventure with festive fun! The children practised Chinese strokes and Pinyin combinations. They also learned about gratitude after watching a short scene of “The Blind Man,” before creating colourful Christmas baubles to take home!

Confucius identifies a mysterious one-legged bird in Qi as a warning of impending floods. His advice leads the state to prepare in time, sparing Qi from disaster. Duke Jing and the people praise his wisdom and begin to regard him as a sage.