Confucius was wanting to have an important government job but never actually did, instead he became a "teacher." His time period was rough so only the rich could afford education. He made his students pay for their education, however, he chose those who showed eagerness to learn. Soon after he thought about North China looking for a ruler who would follow his teachings but wasn't very successful.He returned home disappointed and when he died at 72, he believed his life was a failure.