Li Mi

Li Mi (224–287), courtesy name Lingbo, was an official and scholar of the state of Shu Han in the Three Kingdoms period of China. After the fall of Shu in 263, he continued serving under the Jin dynasty, that succeeded Cao Wei state in 266. Life Li Mi was born in Wuyang, Qianwei Commandery (犍為郡), which is present-day Pengshan County, Sichuan. His grandfather, Li Guang (李光) was the administrator of Zhuti (朱提太守). His father died just after his birth. His mother remaried thereafter and as a child, he was left under the care of his grandmother. Li Mi deeply loved and missed his parents, so much so that he became severely sick. However, his grandmother whose surname was Liu (劉) would console him and raised him well. Although, he grew up in complicated circumstances. Li Mi was eager to learn, he was a student under Qiao Zhou who provided him with good instruction. Li Mi studied the Zuo zhuan and had extensive knowledge in the Four Books and Five Classics. Furthermore, he was well-read in classical text. He was quick witted, discerning and eloquent in his speech. Li Mi was known for his filial piety towards his grandmother. When she was ill, he would shed tears and hold his breath in grief, never removing his mourning attire day or night. He personally tasted all her meals and medicines before giving them to her. He was offered a position in his hometown but declined. Later, he was appointed in Shu Han as Assistant Officer (從事), Gentleman of the Masters of Writing (尚書郎), Registar (主簿) to the Chief-General (大將軍) and a Xima (洗馬; master of the stable) to the Crown Prince. As Li Mi was sent on a diplomatic mission to the state of Wu. The ruler of Wu asked him about the number of horses in Shu to which Li Mi replied: "There are enough for official use and the people have plenty for their own needs." He assisted to a discussion on morality and principles with the ruler and his ministers. Most of the officials wished to be a younger brother. However, Li Mi expressed his desire to be an elder brother. The ruler of Wu asked him: "Why do you wish to be an elder brother?" Li Mi replied: "Because the days of providing and nurturing as an elder brother are longer." The attendance praised him for his response. Li Mi would often serve as envoy for Shu and was commended by the officials of Wu.