(Minghui.org) My nephew is a mid-level executive in a state-owned enterprise, where he is in a position to make significant financial decisions. Such positions are generally considered lucrative because of opportunities for bribes and kickbacks.

He told us about something that happened recently while visiting us for Chinese New Year:

The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) secretary had a talk with him: “Most of our mid-level leaders have joined the Party. Don't you think it's time for you to do that, too? Others may interpret your hesitation as a lack of ambition. It's hard not to make mistakes for people at your level, and a Party membership can protect you from the fallout when things happen.”

My nephew replied: “Secretary, I don't dare to make the kind of mistakes that you're talking about. My whole family depends on me. I am satisfied with my salary and bonus. I guarantee you that I don't accept bribes or kickbacks.”

“Don't you have higher aspirations in life? What about the implications if you don't join the Party?” the secretary asked again.

“I am most proud that I have never submitted an application to join the Party!”

The secretary didn't know what else to say, and left him alone after that. I imagine that the secretary had made such recruitment speeches many times before, but never received such a response.

My nephew had read Nine Commentaries on the Communist Party in 2004, as soon as the book was published. He and his family soon renounced their memberships in the CCP organizations that they belonged to at the time: the Communist Youth League and the Young Pioneers. Through reading the book, he realized the true nature of the Party and no longer wanted anything to do with any of its organizations.

As it turned out, he eventually was promoted at his company on his own merits.