Dionne's Corner

Chinese Fortune Stick Reading of the Day

TRADITIONAL INTERPRETATION
The setting and rising of the sun (the raven) and the moon (the rabbit) symbolizes the ups and downs of human life. Harmony between the two is a sign of good fortune, and you should seek a similar harmony in your own life. If you manage this, everything will be secure and successful. Attempt to remain calm and look to understand your enemies rather than opposing them directly. If you have any firm plans for the future, you should start putting them into effect now. Maybe now is a good time to think about moving.

REFLECTION
Yin and yang are at the heart of this poem. The raven, symbol of the sun, is yang. The rabbit, symbol of the moon, is yin. Buddha, busy teaching and organizing, is yang. The Tao, calm and just being, is yin. You too are both yin and yang: you need the energy of the yang to be balanced by the yin of calmness. Look to yourself if the balance is not quite right, learn to cultivate it in order that you can achieve essential harmony.

Chinese Fortune Stick Reading of the Day

TRADITIONAL INTERPRETATION
While your current goal (whether it is recovering from sickness, making a long journey, or starting a business) will take a long time to succeed, patience will eventually lead to affluence. Profits, both financial and personal, may seem small at the moment, but they will eventually accumulate into great riches. Let reason and logic be your guide, and wait for the perfect moment to put a plan into effect.

REFLECTION
You have been privileged, but do not think it will last forever. Good fortune is like a piece of jade. The rare jade has passed through many hands of many centuries-those who thought they owned it are dust now, but the jade still exists. Treat fortune like that, and recognize that it passes on to others and is only with you for a moment.

Chinese Fortune Stick Reading of the Day

TRADITIONAL INTERPRETATION
You are being foolish in attempting things beyond your ability. Although you craft a thousand schemes, all of them will probably fail. Opt for patience rather than rashness, and try to be content with your lot. Be careful of your own safety, as a serious accident may occur soon. This is not a good time to commit to relationships - let things cool off for awhile, and think about them calmly.

REFLECTION
The image of trying to polish a stone in order to make a mirror is very common in China. Traditional mirrors were made by polishing brass or copper, but, whereas these can be brought to such perfection as to afford a reflection, an ordinary stone cannot. So with you as well. Do not expend time and energy trying to make one thing into something it cannot ever be. Allow each to be true to its own innate nature, as Chuang Tzu the sage so often said. To force one thing to become what it is not is to fail twice.

Chinese Fortune Stick Reading of the Day

TRADITIONAL INTERPRETATION
Any problems that occur are soon likely to become positive disasters unless you are very careful. Act quickly to stop problems getting out of your control, or they will become like the blazing fire described in the fortune. Minor health problems may develop into serious illness. Be cautious; and remember that what appears wise to you now may be foolish with hindsight. Listen closely to the advice of others.

REFLECTION
Life ends; this is a reality. In the end, we need to go into that dark night. You can try and resist, but eventually death awaits us all. As you draw near, look to what will be remembered of you when you are gone. Never mind power and wealth. Will you be missed for who you are? Will people mourn your passing because their lives will be the poorer for your absence?

Chinese Fortune Stick Reading of the Day

TRADITIONAL INTERPRETATION
You are surrounded by illusions, and many concealed dangers await you. While your future prospects may appear good, this may not really be the case. You should consider any seeming chance to make extra money extremely carefully, as it could be a trick. Equally, somebody in your personal life may be deceiving you, especially about children. Hidden ailments might be troubling you physically, and you should try to get a thorough medical checkup soon.

REFLECTION
This could hardly be clearer. The things you currently value most - the material aspects of your life - are not what is really valuable. Indeed, they are traps. Look very deep within, and see what truly lies there.

Chinese Fortune Stick Reading of the Day

TRADITIONAL INTERPRETATION
Just as the general in this story became an Emperor, this predicts that you will rise to a high position, so long as you seize the opportunities given to you and strike while the iron is hot. In particular, this is a very good fortune for anything to do with business affairs, although it is possible you will have difficulties with a particularly tenacious rival. It is also a fortunate moment for you to commit yourself to any kind of relationship, and existing relationships will grow stronger.

REFLECTION
The symbol of the fall of a great city means that, in what you are about to do, you must think big. The odds may seem stacked against you, but in reality the time is right. Yes, you will meet opposition but this should not deter you. In particular, if those who oppose you are guilty of oppression or abuse of power, then the need to overcome them is greater.



TRADITIONAL INTERPRETATION
You should try to be content with what you have rather than overreaching yourself. Although you may be very competent at your work, you are likely not paying enough attention to your home life. At the moment, high positions are beyond your reach. Avoid getting involved in disputes with others, particularly within the family, and postpone travel unless strictly necessary because it will involve many delays and harassments.

REFLECTION
The sheer destructiveness of those who gossip, who attack those they envy, by chipping away at their good name, is condemned here, but it is also feared. If you are under attack by those around you through unkind words or petty actions, this can wear you out and cause you great distress. You may feel you should not be affected by such silly things. But this poem tells you that you are not alone in feeling this way. Even the strongest can be reduced to tears and unhappiness by those who maliciously attack or criticize them. Keep going, and you will recover.

Chinese Fortune Stick Reading of the Day

TRADITIONAL INTERPRETATION
You should try to be content with what you have rather than overreaching yourself. Although you may be very competent at your work, you are likely not paying enough attention to your home life. At the moment, high positions are beyond your reach. Avoid getting involved in disputes with others, particularly within the family, and postpone travel unless strictly necessary because it will involve many delays and harassments.

REFLECTION
The sheer destructiveness of those who gossip, who attack those they envy, by chipping away at their good name, is condemned here, but it is also feared. If you are under attack by those around you through unkind words or petty actions, this can wear you out and cause you great distress. You may feel you should not be affected by such silly things. But this poem tells you that you are not alone in feeling this way. Even the strongest can be reduced to tears and unhappiness by those who maliciously attack or criticize them. Keep going, and you will recover.



TRADITIONAL INTERPRETATION
As this fortune says, you will not achieve anything without experiencing a fair amount of worry and suffering along the way. Be careful and discriminating before embarking on a new scheme, but throw all your efforts into whatever you eventually decide to do. Do not be dissuaded by the difficulties you encounter, as you will win through in the end. Try to anticipate problems before they occur so you are prepared to deal with them. Try your best to reconcile yourself with any friends or family you are currently estranged from, and do not be afraid to commit yourself to a relationship.

REFLECTION
Too often we assume today that we have a right to be happy, that nothing is worth struggling for. We assume that if we are not enjoying ourselves we should move on and abandon relationships or situations. But this belief in happiness is so damaging for it leads us to give up before we have even started. You must persevere.. The struggle is necessary for a sense of true worth to arise. Stick with it and you will find, perhaps not happiness exactly, but something even better - contentment.

Chinese Fortune Stick Reading of the Day

TRADITIONAL INTERPRETATION
Your attempts to gain wealth and fame are likely to be successful, and your personal relationships will turn out well. You need only search to find many opportunities for advancement. Do not hesitate to put your plans into operation, and it is a good idea to commit yourself more strongly to your current relationships. With care, you can remain both physically and mentally fit.

REFLECTION
The peony is the beloved flower of Chinese poets and artists, for it has a strong sexual overtone, being (in its elongated bud stage) the example par excellence of the male member and the yang principle. But its multitude of opening petals is the symbol of the female, of sex, and of the yin principle. Thus it combines the yin and yang symbolism. It is saying: be complete, both yin and yang, and you will be able to progress. Do not rely on just one aspect of your personality, nor should you be too modest. In Chinese slang, a peony is a stunningly beautiful and sexy young woman. Do not hide your light under a bushel! If you have skills and attributes, use them, show them to others, and they will appreciate you and help you to advance.



TRADITIONAL INTERPRETATION
At the moment, everything may seem overwhelming and your problems just too many to cope with effectively. Do not be worried; learn to relax, to avoid stress, and your problems will soon pass. Your personal life will blossom, and you are likely to make friends with someone who is in a good position to help you. Any business investments you have made, however, are likely to take a sharp downturn soon, so it would be wise to take any money now, while you still can.

REFLECTION
A hot Chinese summer can be almost unbearable. It is a small wonder, therefore, that the Emperors sacrificed to the yin spirit of cold, wet, and winter at the height of summer! But, through the rise and fall of yin and yang, summer is always followed by autumn and winter. Bear with your current situation, and you will find that things become a little easier. Change will come - it always does.



TRADITIONAL INTERPRETATION
Working together with others is your best hope for advancement and profit. Form close friendships, and affairs will be settled quickly. Great chances are very close, and you will soon receive pleasing news. Investments will most likely prosper, and you will recover from most illnesses quickly.

REFLECTION
Quiet acts of kindness may seem insignificant, but in fact, they make you into the sort of person that kings and emperors would like as a friend. Nothing is too small to count. Cultivate kindness and compassion in your life. Discover how this will bring you a better fortune, because it will make you a better person.

Chinese Fortune Stick Reading of the Day

TRADITIONAL INTERPRETATION
Words are of no use without deeds to accompany them. You should try to settle the problems you have now, and (as always) kind deeds are the best way to assure a good fortune. Wealth and status are beyond your reach at the moment, but personal relationships are more favored by fate. Sickness will only pass if you seek some medical assistance.

REFLECTION
This poem seems to echo the words of Jesus. Not only did He say you reap what you sow, but He also said that those who simply prayed would not enter Heaven; only those who cared for the sick, the poor, those in prison, for example, would get there. This poem says the same. Forget religious practices and rituals, meditation or crystal gazing. Unless you live a life of service to others, how can you expect Heaven's favors?

Chinese Fortune Stick Reading of the Day

TRADITIONAL INTERPRETATION
You may be beset with worries at the moment, but your life will improve, step by step, over time. There will be no miraculous solutions to your problems but instead a gradual recovery. Old friends may soon arrive to help you, and the time is ripe to make firmer commitments in your personal life. In the long run, happiness really does lie ahead.

REFLECTION
The aim of every scholar in China was to go to the capital to take the final Imperial exam. Being successful opened the way to glory, power, and wealth. But not to pass the exam meant failure and great disappointment. This story, however, makes the following point. Although the one who failed had to return home, the strain of failure made him ill. Being ill made him realize how much he longed for the security, love, and friendship of home - even if he did not come home in triumph. Appreciate what you have.



TRADITIONAL INTERPRETATION
You should try to be content with what you have rather than overreaching yourself. Although you may be very competent at your work, you are likely not paying enough attention to your home life. At the moment, high positions are beyond your reach. Avoid getting involved in disputes with others, particularly within the family, and postpone travel unless strictly necessary because it will involve many delays and harassments.

REFLECTION
The sheer destructiveness of those who gossip, who attack those they envy, by chipping away at their good name, is condemned here, but it is also feared. If you are under attack by those around you through unkind words or petty actions, this can wear you out and cause you great distress. You may feel you should not be affected by such silly things. But this poem tells you that you are not alone in feeling this way. Even the strongest can be reduced to tears and unhappiness by those who maliciously attack or criticize them. Keep going, and you will recover.

Chinese Fortune Stick Reading of the Day

TRADITIONAL INTERPRETATION
Your life is like a peaceful and wealthy mansion defended by a strong fence. You can enjoy peace and prosperity safety, and both you and your family are largely free from danger. If you try to make more money quickly, though, you will find difficulties, and you should make long-term investments instead. Existing problems will drag out for some time, but will turn out all right in the end. For instance, illnesses will most likely be prolonged but have no lasting effects.

REFLECTION
You have everything planned, but somehow you cannot ever let yourself go and thus do what you keep planning. To do so you may need to seek help from someone who can stand back from the issues and cast a calm, detached eye over your plans. Look for such a person, and listen to their advice. If it seems sound, do not hesitate.

Chinese Fortune Stick Reading of the Day

TRADITIONAL INTERPRETATION
While happiness awaits you, it may take many years for your current difficulties to mend. Expect a gradual recovery from your problems rather than a sudden solution. You may well find your friends are your best source of support. If you are considering committing to a relationship, this would be a very good time, as the relationship is likely to be long-lasting and successful.

REFLECTION
An impossible chasm seems to be set between yourself and another. Yet this gulf can be bridged. Be honest about what you feel, and see if such honesty brings a change on the other side. Even if it does not, you will have acted appropriately.

Chinese Fortune Stick Reading of the Day

TRADITIONAL INTERPRETATION
While you have a decent chance of being both respected and admired for your actions, wealth will not necessarily accompany this. It is time to make firm decisions about your relationships: either committing yourself definitely or breaking away for good. In general, your life will progress fairly smoothly without major upsets. If you feel depressed, you should start thinking about helping other people rather than yourself.

REFLECTION
The most beautiful time of day is early in the morning, exquisitely recalled in this poem. But there is another meaning. So the story goes, a young servant, up early in order to enjoy the morning air and ready to work, heard upon the wind the faint sound of enemy soldiers approaching on horseback to attack the palace. He raised the alarm just in time. Be alert. Be ready. You have no idea when the peace and quiet will be broken by changing events.



TRADITIONAL INTERPRETATION
You should contemplate carefully the ramifications of any plan you attempt at the moment, as well as heeding the advice of others. If traveling, you are likely to experience many inconveniences and delays. Relationships will probably be happy and contented, and there is little chance of accident or illness within your family. You, however, should take care to keep healthy.

REFLECTION
No detail is too small, no concern too minor, to ignore at present. If you try to do things on too grandiose a scale, you may by accident ignore those of true worth while leaving yourself open to attack by the pompous and the ignorant. Take care in all you do. Focus on quality, not quantity. Listen, watch, be available, and you may be able to undertake great things without losing either yourself or others.

Chinese Fortune Stick Reading of the Day

TRADITIONAL INTERPRETATION
While your current goal (whether it is recovering from sickness, making a long journey, or starting a business) will take a long time to succeed, patience will eventually lead to affluence. Profits, both financial and personal, may seem small at the moment, but they will eventually accumulate into great riches. Let reason and logic be your guide, and wait for the perfect moment to put a plan into effect.

REFLECTION
You have been privileged, but do not think it will last forever. Good fortune is like a piece of jade. The rare jade has passed through many hands of many centuries-those who thought they owned it are dust now, but the jade still exists. Treat fortune like that, and recognize that it passes on to others and is only with you for a moment.



TRADITIONAL INTERPRETATION
When you embark on any endeavor, you should look out for warning signs that the enterprise may not be as successful as you hoped. If you find any such clues, cut your losses as soon as possible. Do not waste your energy in useless persistence, and remember that good times cannot last forever. For you, success in anything depends on both choosing the right moment and ensuring that you have a safe refuge if things go badly.

REFLECTION
The good times do not last! You have had it good for some time, but look for the signs of inevitable change and decay. There is nothing to be afraid of in this. Change is inevitable, as the I-Ching always reminds us. The Buddha saw dependency on what is bound to change as one of the main causes of human misery. And Jesus said to live each day as if it were your last. So watch for the shadows of change, and welcome them as you would the cool of autumn after the heat of summer.

Chinese Fortune Stick Reading of the Day

TRADITIONAL INTERPRETATION
The full moon in this fortune represents hope for the future. Though things may seem confused at the moment, if you follow your conscience, everything will become clear. You need to make a clear division between right and wrong in your life. If you do this, it will be a good time for you. Your new found clarity will benefit both your personal life and your business. The relationship with your family, particularly with your parents, will improve.

REFLECTION
You know what is right and what is wrong. Stop pretending otherwise. All may seem obscure and troubling around you, but let your conscience dictate, and you will find the right path to follow.



TRADITIONAL INTERPRETATION
Misfortune is very close, and your current efforts to prevent it are useless. Forget your old methods, and try a completely new approach, or you may end up in considerable trouble. You are more likely to find success in business than in your personal life. Remember that compromise is often the best solution to a dispute.

REFLECTION
This poem is a warning. You are very close to making the wrong decision. Passion, power, and excitement have already caused you to lose your way once. Do not do it again. Use the compass of your conscience to guide you into making the correct decision - walking the true Tao. To do otherwise, will be unfortunate.