A student at Peking University, eager for success but frequently facing setbacks in real life, wrote a letter to Mr. Cai Yuanpei, then the President of the university, seeking guidance. After reading the letter, President Cai arranged a meeting with the student.
The student entered the President's office with great excitement. Before he could say a word, President Cai greeted him with a smile, "Come, sit down. Let me brew some tea for you." He then took tea leaves from a drawer, placed them in a cup, poured hot water, and handed it to the student, saying kindly, "This is premium green tea; please, have a taste."
Feeling honored, the student picked up the cup, only to see the tea leaves floating sparsely on the surface. The water looked pale and lacked any green color. He took a sip, but it tasted like plain water, with no tea flavor at all. The student couldn't help but frown. President Cai, ignoring the student's expression, engaged him in light, casual conversation. The student felt uneasy, and once President Cai finished speaking, he stood up, intending to leave.
President Cai waved his hand and said, "What's the rush? Finish your tea before you go. This is premium green tea; it would be a pity to waste it!" The student had no choice but to continue drinking. But as he did, a rich aroma filled his mouth! He was stunned and looked at the cup in surprise: the tea leaves had all settled at the bottom, and the water had turned into a clear, emerald green.
President Cai smiled and asked meaningfully, "Do you understand now?"
The student nodded instantly and said with joy, "I understand! You mean that to pursue success, one must be like this green tea—not impetuous or superficial, but instead, one must calm the mind and settle down steadily and earnestly to truly achieve results!"
