In my hometown of Peachspring Village, many people never leave Sanqing Mountain in their lifetime, but the old gentleman was different. He served as an official for twenty years, visiting Bianjing and towering mountains of Guangnan East and West Circuits. It was from his stories that I learned of vast Song's territory, realizing that Peachspring Village was but a tiny speck I couldn't confine myself to this small village forever. With this thought in mind, I dedicated myself to my studies, hoping that one day I could achieve great success like the old gentleman and leave this small mountain village.
At twenty-one, I took the old gentleman's recommendation letter and went to Bianjing to study. At Sanqing Mountain, the gentleman had only a few students, and I felt like a standout, with talents that surpassed others. However, at Imperial Academy, where scholars from all over gathered, I was just a country bumpkin, without power or influence, and my so-called "standout" talents were nothing. Feeling inferior, I shut myself away to study diligently, and unexpectedly, I succeeded in one attempt, becoming a success. I proudly sent a letter to the gentleman: I heard that you first made the honor roll at thirty-six, but I have already made a name for myself in capital before reaching thirty. How do I compare to you? I imagine when the gentleman received my letter, he must have been both amused and exasperated.
Just as I made the honor roll, a high-ranking official sent someone to propose marriage, truly a double blessing. With the help of my father-in-law, I was promoted from a local position to Bianjing, and I brought my parents to capital. At that time, the streets were bustling with noise, surrounded by luxury, and prosperity seemed like a dream! Yet, I often heard my parents sigh, in Bianjing, there wasn't a single peach blossom grove. This is the life many dream of in their prime, don't you think so too?