So we have Chang’e, the lonely lady, and the Jade Rabbit, her helper. But there’s another guy up there on the moon, and his story is kind of like a never-ending chore. His name is Wu Gang.
A long time ago, Wu Gang wasn’t a god or anything special. He was just a regular guy, but he had a really big problem: he was super impatient. He wanted to become an immortal god, but he didn’t want to do the hard work or learn the lessons to get there. He was always looking for a shortcut.
He heard that by studying special magic and spiritual practices, he could become immortal. But after just a few days, he got bored and gave up. He was always jumping from one thing to another, never finishing anything.
The gods, especially the Jade Emperor, were not happy about this. They were tired of Wu Gang’s laziness and his lack of commitment. They decided to teach him a lesson he would never forget.
So, the Jade Emperor came up with a punishment that fit the crime. He banished Wu Gang to the moon and pointed to a giant, beautiful tree. This wasn’t just any tree—it was a magical Laurel Tree.
“Wu Gang,” the Emperor said. “If you can chop down this tree, you will earn your immortality and be forgiven.”
Wu Gang thought, “No problem! I’m strong, I can do this!” He grabbed a giant axe and took a huge swing at the trunk. CHOP! A big piece of wood flew off.
But then, something crazy happened. The second he pulled his axe back, the tree’s wound instantly healed itself. It was like he had never chopped it at all.
Wu Gang couldn’t believe it. He started chopping again, faster and faster. CHOP, CHOP, CHOP! But every time, the tree magically healed completely. It was an impossible task.
And that’s his life now. He is stuck on the moon forever, constantly chopping at that magic tree. He can never stop, because the moment he does, it just grows back. It’s the ultimate lesson in patience, and it’s one he has to learn for all eternity.
So when you look at the moon, remember: Chang’e is there, the rabbit is making medicine, and Wu Gang is still chopping, chopping, chopping, and never getting anywhere. It’s a pretty good reminder to actually finish your homework.