Two scholars went to the capital for examinations; One passed and stayed, one failed and returned Carrying a letter from his friend. He fell ill, But eventually- thank Heaven! - came home.
TRADITIONAL INTERPRETATION
ou 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.
