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Fifth Hexagram
Deep Waters in the Heavens:
Thunderclouds approaching from the west,
but no rain yet.
The Superior Person
nourishes himself
and remains of good cheer
to condition himself
for the moment of truth.
Great success
if you sincerely
keep to your course.
You may cross
to the far shore.
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Changing Lines
Line Six
The showdown comes,
with the opponents
too evenly matched.
Just as all hopes
of survival are dashed,
three strangers appear.
They will tip the scales
in favor of the contender
who recognizes them
for what they are.
Line Five
You smile
and join in the banquet,
relaxing and
gaining perspective,
yet vigilant
and prepared
for the next onslaught.
Such genuine grace
under pressure
ensures victory
and good fortune.
Line Four
The enemy is upon you.
You wait in blood,
preparing yourself
for their blows;
but your own ability
can see you through,
if you stand your ground
and maintain balance.
Line Three
Anxiety prods you
to premature action.
Wading into the river,
you become mired
in the bed of mud.
Not only does the enemy
realize you detect them,
but they see
your vulnerability
as an opportunity
to strike.
Line Two
Taking your post
in the sand,
ceaselessly watching
the far shore
for enemy movements,
you must endure
the taunts and contempt
of your comrades.
Good fortune
in the end.
Line One
No trouble in sight,
but vague anxieties
about what lies
beyond the horizon.
Whether real or not,
the threat
has already won
your peace of mind.
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