Earth & Yang
Proverb
If you’re planning an invasion, build your own fortress first.
Poem
They raised the outer walls;
Outer walls, soaring high.
They raised the inner gate;
The inner gate, strond as stone.
They raised the great earth-fortress
When the campaigns began.
Meditation
There is little to add to this.
Its meaning is clear.
Prepare well for any venture;
in particular, prepare for failures and disappointments
as well as triumphs.
Hopefully you will succeed,
but if not,
then you will be able to survive the disappointments.
©Loes Raaphorst 10/2005