An Lushan's Rebellion
Neutral
The poem
Original: 滩小石溪流水响 / 清风明月贵人忙 / 路须借问何方去 / 莫取林中花草香
The story
An Lushan, a general of foreign origin, rose high in Emperor Xuanzong's favour and held the northern commands. A feud with the chancellor Yang Guozhong pushed him into revolt: he took Luoyang, broke through Tong Pass, and drove the emperor west while the empire fell into war. Having declared himself emperor, he went blind and violent, and was killed by his own son.
What it means
The image is of a boat crossing shallow rapids, with help at hand. The water is loud and the stones look dangerous, but the boat passes. Someone is quietly working on your behalf. What matters is that you ask directions instead of charging ahead on your own judgement, and that you refuse the sweet-smelling detour, the temptation that leads off the proper road. The work is tiring and slow; hold to what you know, wait for the season, listen to advice, and the outcome is good.
By area of life
Wealth
Returns are middling. Look for a legitimate channel and refuse anything that dazzles, because a small greed here costs a great deal later.
Love
If you want the relationship to advance, talk it over with the elders of your family rather than deciding alone and provoking trouble.
Work
Plenty of situations will arise. Listen to your advisers, refuse the quick inducement, and you will pass the rapids without any damage.
Health
A troubled mind makes a troubled body. Settle the mind first and the physical complaint eases of its own accord.
Travel
The journey is broadly favourable. When you meet difficulty, ask someone who knows, and do not let a tempting offer pull you off course.
Advice
Loud water is not deep water; ask the way, and ignore the perfume.