The renowned physician Bian Que once stood before Duke Huan of Cai. After a moment, he said, "You have an illness, still in the skin. If not treated, it will worsen." The Duke laughed. "I am not ill." Later, he told his attendants, "Doctors love to treat those who are not sick—and call it merit."
Ten days later, Bian Que returned. "The illness has entered the muscles. Without treatment, it will deepen." The Duke ignored him, displeased.
Another ten days passed. "Now it is in the stomach and intestines. If neglected, it will become severe." Still, the Duke paid no heed.
After yet another ten days, Bian Que glanced at the Duke and walked away. Puzzled, the Duke sent a messenger. Bian Que replied, "When the illness was in the skin, heat could cure it. In the muscles, acupuncture. In the organs, herbal fire. But once it reaches the marrow, fate alone holds sway. I can do no more. Now it is in the marrow—so I left."
Five days later, the Duke was seized with pain. He sent for Bian Que, but the physician had already fled to Qin. Soon, the Duke died.
The lesson is ancient yet timeless: small signs precede great calamities. Heed wise counsel early, or learn too late. Awareness is the beginning of healing.