In many cultures, fortune-telling is viewed with skepticism, often dismissed as mere superstition. Yet, the journey from skepticism to a belief that the divine takes a hand in orchestrating our lives, as experienced by an individual, offers a unique perspective on how unexpected encounters can profoundly alter beliefs. This story unfolds against the backdrop of personal crisis and transformation, exploring the intricate ways fate weaves through individuals’ lives.
Journey of a skeptic
From a young age, I believed everyone had their own fate, yet I was wary of fortune-telling. My mother, despite taking me to temples to worship, warned me against it, saying: “Fortune telling and drawing lots — if they predict something good, it doesn’t come true; if they predict something bad, it inevitably will!” Thus, until the age of forty, I strictly followed her advice; however, several events that happened later changed my perspective.
Life takes a downturn
In 1981, while serving in the ‘721’ University Training Brigade of the army, I faced a significant dilemma. The engineering corps was dissolved, and all teachers and officers in the brigade were reassigned. While others were transferred back to civilian life according to their wishes, I was sent to the Third Regiment instead of being allowed to take another teaching position.
Subsequently, I was transferred to a specific provincial Mining Bureau. I understood this was a targeted difficulty imposed by the brigade leadership due to a grudge against my family. Not only was I to leave the educational field I loved, but I also had to move my family far from home, which brought me to an all-time low.
Seeking guidance from fortune-telling
In early 1982, on a snowy day, a friend, aware of my situation, suggested I consult a well-known blind fortune-teller in the local town to see if there was a way out. Filled with hope and seeking comfort, my friend led me to the blind man’s doorstep. Inside, I saw a middle-aged man sitting by the bed with his eyes closed.
As soon as we settled down, before I could state my purpose, he said: “No need to explain; I’ve already calculated your fortune.” He pointed to a notebook on the table: “Turn to the marked page and read it aloud.” Confused, I opened the notebook — a handwritten book of fortunes in blue ink — and read the marked page. It stated: “You are honest and kind, currently facing adversity due to deceitful individuals. However, in six months, a benefactor will assist you, leading to a successful resolution of your desires.”
Overjoyed and shocked, I marveled at how this blind man could possess such foresight. After thanking him sincerely and paying him, we left for the town center.
Unexpected affirmation
Due to the heavy snow and wind, we felt cold and stepped into a shop to warm up. The shopkeeper welcomed us warmly, and as my friend explained my situation and the day’s fortune-telling to the shopkeeper, a visitor seated across from us started observing me.
Suddenly, he said: “You don’t need fortune-telling; no one can bully you!” I was startled and eagerly asked him to elaborate. He replied: “Just by looking at your face, I can tell you’re a person of good nature. You might not know it, but your forehead bears the mark of the dragon and tiger, which means no one can overpower you, as you have divine protection!” His words astounded everyone, and my friend and the shopkeeper stared intently at my forehead.
That same day, I had the fortune of meeting two wise individuals who spoke auspiciously, giving me hope and great joy. Indeed, six months later, the Ministry of Armed Forces in Beijing approved my transfer, allowing me to return as a teacher to the mining institute from which I graduated. This experience convinced me that fortune-telling is not superstition but holds philosophical truths.
Reflections on destiny
A few years ago, discussing life with several young teachers in my school’s social sciences department, I shared my experiences. They, too, had their own stories of fortune-telling involving divination, face reading, and palmistry, all surprisingly accurate.
I exclaimed: “Why can they predict and see? Because each person has their own life program installed, dictating when they are born, when they attend school, when they marry, when they prosper, and when they face misfortune — all running according to a predetermined script. Everyone has their own life script, and this is what we call fate.” I continued: “So who can install this life program before one is even born? Only a higher being, that is, God!” They all listened quietly, nodding in agreement.
Translated by Audrey Wang
