Stick #71
Zhuangzi Saves the Stranded Fish
FairPoem
A fish trapped in a dried rut lies in plight,
Fortune's tide may turn ere day is done.
If western waters flow to set it right,
This carp may yet become a dragon one.
涸轍之中鮒困之
窮通自可卜當時
若能引得西江水
他日成龍也未知
Interpretation
This sign depicts a fish stranded without water, symbolizing extreme hardship. If one can attract help (like drawing water from the West River), this fish might transform into a dragon someday—representing unexpected success. The querent currently faces difficulties with scarce assistance. The solution is to cultivate goodness immediately; noble help will then arrive, turning misfortune into blessing. Delay is dangerous—like a fish out of water that cannot wait. This sign's outcome (good or bad) remains undetermined, hinging entirely on one's actions.
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