Wang Mang Courts the Worthy
Neutral
The poem
Original: 养蜂须用求他蜜 / 只怕遭触尾上针 / 须是眼前有异路 / 暗里深如荆棘林
The story
Wang Mang was made Marquis of Xindu because his aunt was empress to Emperor Yuan. Modest in manner, free with his money and famous for gathering talent, he built an enormous reputation and finally usurped the Han, renaming the dynasty Xin. His archaic reforms deepened the people's misery, the empire rose, and Liu Xiu destroyed him and restored the Han.
What it means
This is the sign of taking honey from bees: what is sweet and what stings occupy the same place. There is a second road available, but thorn thickets lie under it. Matters must be handled in detail and nothing should be forced. Whatever profit is owed to you comes through goodwill and competence, not through a gamble. Find out where the sting actually is before you put your hand in, and the honey can still be had safely enough after all.
By area of life
Wealth
Thorns along the trading road. Profit is available only inside risk, so handle everything carefully in order to avoid being hurt.
Love
Obstacles stand in the way, with the possibility of an unpleasant surprise. Guard against sudden changes and build the thing slowly.
Work
Risk in the road ahead. Goodwill and real ability get you out of trouble, and profit here carries a matching danger.
Health
This treatment has side effects and the alternatives carry their own risks. Treat the root, and choose with great care.
Travel
The road is not an easy one and thorns lie along it. Accidents should be guarded against well in advance.
Advice
Find out where the sting is, and then reach for the honey.