The Old Man at the Frontier Loses His Horse

Poem

Interpretation

The ancient tale tells of a frontier man who lost his horse. When others condoled, he said, 'How do we know this isn’t a blessing?' Later, the horse returned with others, and when congratulated, he said, 'How do we know this isn’t a misfortune?' His son broke his leg riding the horse, and when pitied, he again questioned assumptions. Later, conscription for the emperor’s wall-building exempted his son due to the injury. Thus, misfortune turned to fortune. Life’s fortunes and misfortunes are unpredictable—only time reveals the truth. Those who act virtuously may turn calamity into blessing. Drawing this sign means neither rejoicing in current fortune nor despairing in hardship, but steadfastly doing good. This sign indicates uncertain outcomes—meticulousness in all matters is advised.

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