~ Stick # 44 ~
Competing fiercely to become spring's queen,
The garden flowers blossom to their full beauty.
Who will win the golden crown of glory?
Among them all, only the peony stands out.
TRADITIONAL INTERPRETATIONYour 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.
REFLECTIONThe 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.
~ Stick # 51 ~
During the long, long summer dog days
Everybody is tortured by the burning sun.
But now a calm and soothing breeze has arisen,
The will of Heaven that eases human souls.
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.
REFLECTIONA 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.
~ Stick # 64 ~
Two good friends were in business together;
The richer gave the poorer a larger share.
Such virtue did not go unrewarded, and very soon
Both became ministers under the great king.
TRADITIONAL INTERPRETATIONWorking 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.
REFLECTIONQuiet 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.