Promise Fulfillment Protocol

Overview

A protocol for honoring internal commitments and promises even when external circumstances have changed, based on Ji Zha's treatment of his promise to the Lord of Xu.

Steps

1. Recognize Internal Commitments

   • Acknowledge promises made in your heart, not just verbally
   • Understand that internal assent creates moral obligation

2. Assess Changed Circumstances

   • Determine if the original recipient is still able to receive
   • Consider whether death or absence voids the commitment

3. Apply the Core Principle

   • The principle: "When my heart has already promised, how can I go against my heart because of death?"
   • Death does not release one from internal commitments

4. Fulfill the Commitment

   • Complete the promised action regardless of changed circumstances
   • If direct fulfillment is impossible, perform symbolic fulfillment