Fan Li Retires to the Five Lakes
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The poem
Original: 五湖四海任君行 / 高挂帆蓬自在撑 / 若得顺风随即至 / 满船宝贝喜层层
The story
Fan Li devised the plan by which King Goujian of Yue destroyed the state of Wu. Knowing that Goujian could share hardship but not success, he slipped away by boat across the five lakes as soon as the victory was won. Under a new name he made a fortune in trade three times and gave it away three times, and was remembered as the sage of merchants.
What it means
The image is a boat running before the wind: everything goes smoothly. The lakes and seas are open to you, the sail is hoisted and she steers easily, and once a fair wind comes you arrive at once with the hold full of treasure. The word is ease. You need not strain against anything; set the sail, hold the course, and the wind will come. This is the moment to develop widely, but remember Fan Li's sense of proportion: keep your principles while the wind is fair, and know when to stop, or the cargo will not stay yours.
By area of life
Wealth
Investment profits, but spread the risk and keep rules for entering and leaving. Trading widely while holding to your method pays well.
Love
The match costs no effort and can come from a thousand miles away. Pursue naturally, avoid wilfulness, and respect will repair a rift.
Work
Look widely for work and manage it honestly and prosperity follows. Hold your principles, and with a fair wind the profits fill the hold.
Health
Review the causes of the illness comprehensively; with the right physician recovery is certain. The pressure is easing, so do not fret.
Travel
The road abroad is bright. Keep to the rules, use your abilities fully, and the prospect is exceptionally good. West is favoured.
Advice
The wind is already fair, so set the sail, hold your course, stop straining, and know when to stop.