三 人 行， 必 有 我 师 Sān rén xíng， bì yǒu wǒ shī

English meaning: Three people go together. There must be someone who can be my teacher. 

In the proverb, “teacher” refers to any individual who has a lesson for you. It is not uncommon for to us learn one thing or two from an acquittance or even an stranger. In Chinese culture, they are seen as one’s teacher.

The scope of “teachers” could also extends to things, matters even animals. Many years ago, I read an article about the ducks fight against each other and then flap off their wings. This emotional release allows them to let go of the grudges and stay present. Whenever I am stuck in my head and battle with my emotions, I think of these ducks. They are my teacher now. 

The proverb reflects the great virtue of modesty in Chinese.