Conflicts between nations are often rooted in competing interests, whereas harmonious coexistence is a shared aspiration for all countries, as it serves their collective long-term interests. Neighboring nations may occasionally engage in warfare over minor territorial disputes at their borders. Such conflicts, driven by force, are essentially crude methods of contention that often carry an undertone of "the strong bullying the weak."
In ancient China, there is a famous story known as the "Three-Foot Lane." It is said that the site was once the ancestral home of Guo Pu, a prime minister during the Ming Dynasty. A neighbor had encroached upon a small strip of land along the wall of the Guo family residence while building a house. The Guo family, feeling wronged, engaged in a heated dispute with the neighbor, which eventually escalated to a legal battle. Because both families were of official status, the local officials were hesitant to intervene, and the dispute remained unresolved.
Consequently, the Guo family sent a messenger to inform Guo Pu of the situation. In his reply, Guo Pu wrote a few lines of poetry that have been recited for generations: "I send this letter only regarding the wall; what harm is there in yielding three feet? The Great Wall remains to this day, yet the Emperor of Qin is long gone." Upon understanding the wisdom behind these words, the Guo family immediately ceased the litigation and willingly surrendered the three feet of land. Upon learning of this, the neighbors felt deep remorse for their actions and moved their wall back as well. Through this mutual concession, the former boundary transformed into a wide pedestrian lane.
This story teaches us that concession fosters harmony, while constant contention breeds chaos. Why must neighboring countries struggle over a mere piece of land? Unnecessary provocation only serves to destroy bilateral harmony, and the responsibility for disrupting peace lies with those who initiate the conflict.
Harmonious coexistence among nations is a crucial factor in fostering a stable international environment. Many contemporary issues—such as environmental protection, nuclear security, and the prevention and treatment of diseases—are global in nature. These problems can only be effectively addressed when nations coexist in harmony. Furthermore, no nation can thrive in isolation; a favorable international environment is essential for driving domestic economic growth. Therefore, managing international relations and maintaining harmony between nations is of paramount importance.
