Wong Tai Sin Sign 64 · Mencius's Strategic Retreat

This stick references Mencius (Meng Zhifan), a military officer from ancient China's Spring and Autumn period. During a devastating battle where his army was routed, Mencius appeared to be the last soldier fleeing the battlefield — a seemingly cowardly act that should have brought shame. However, when people praised him for his 'bravery' in covering the retreat, Mencius humbly deflected the honor. He claimed he wasn't being brave at all; his horse was just too slow and stubborn to run faster. This story became legendary because it captured the essence of true humility. Mencius could have accepted undeserved praise, but instead chose honest self-assessment over false glory. In Confucian culture, this represents the highest form of character — knowing your true motivations and refusing to take credit where none is due.