Stick #49
Sima Xiangru's Bridge Inscription
GoodPoem
Ten years of toil by the window bore fruit at last,
Yet lofty dreams weighed heavy, hard to hold fast.
Behold thirteen words carved upon the bridge's frame -
A lifelong vow of passion none could ever tame.
十年窗下苦功成
有志難舒願不輕
試看題橋十三字
生平心誓確鍾情
Interpretation
This sign tells the story of Sima Xiangru who studied diligently for ten years in poverty. Before leaving for Shu, he inscribed thirteen characters on a bridge pillar: 'I shall not cross this bridge again unless riding a grand carriage.' Later, he achieved great success and fulfilled his vow. The message is: stay determined, endure hardships, and your efforts will be rewarded. Heaven favors the virtuous - good deeds accelerate success. This is an auspicious sign with no misfortune.
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