Li-Li lived with her husband and mother-in-law. She couldn't get along with her mother-in-law who criticized her constantly. They never stopped fighting. Finally, Li-Li decided to do something.
She went to Mr. Huang who sold herbs, told him the situation and asked for poison. Mr. Huang said, I will help, but you must do what I say. Li-Li agreed. Mr. Huang brought some herbs and said, "You can't use quick-acting poison to get rid of your mother-in-law, because that would make people suspicious. I have given you herbs that will slowly build up poison in her body. Every other day prepare a delicious meal and put a little of these herbs in her serving. To ensure nobody suspects you, you must be friendly towards her. Don't argue with her, obey her wishes, and treat her like a queen."
Months went by, and every other day Li-Li served the specially treated food to her mother-in-law. She controlled her temper, obeyed her mother-in-law, and treated her like her own mother. After 6 months the household had changed. Li-Li hadn't had an argument with her mother-in-law, who now seemed easier to get along with.
The mother-in-law began to love Li-Li like her own daughter. She told friends that Li-Li was the best daughter-in-law one could find. Li-Li and her mother-in-law were now like a real mother and daughter. One day, Li-Li came to Mr. Huang and asked for his help to stop the poison killing her mother-in-law! "She's such a nice woman, and I love her like my own mother. I do not want her to die."
Mr. Huang smiled. "Li-Li, I never gave you any poison. The herbs were vitamins to improve health. The only poison was in your attitude toward her, but that has been washed away by the love you gave to her."
Fight other people’s bad manners with good and an enemy will be turned into a friend.
