In a time long past, the land of China was ruled by an emperor known as the Jade Emperor. He was a wise and just ruler, loved by his people.
One day, a young man named Liu came to the palace seeking an audience with the emperor. Liu had heard that the Jade Emperor was all-knowing and all-seeing, and he hoped to gain some wisdom from him.
The Jade Emperor welcomed Liu into his presence and asked him what he desired. Liu explained that he wanted to learn about life and how to live it wisely.
The Jade Emperor smiled and said, "Ah, my young friend, you have come to me for wisdom? Very well." And with that, he began to tell Liu a story about life.
"Life," said the emperor, "is like a river flowing through mountains."
