Odds (Sun Tzu Chapter 1 Overview)

To shift the odds to you it’s best to know them,
For knowing them affects how they play out;
Sun Tzu says count your blessings and your shortfalls,
Then ratio makes clear what was in doubt.

Sometimes there’s factors there which need exploiting;
Sometimes there shortfalls for the other side;
In counting up and seeing all this clearly,
The odds can shift, like shifting of the tide.

One factor – more a set of them, I figure,
Is God – not, “Is He on our side this time?”
But rather, “Where am I within His purpose?”
That trumps all cards held in your hand and mine.

For all the skirmishes and larger warfare,
In business, sports, or politics about,
Are nothing in the broad celestial picture,
For hanging in with God’s a different route.

I like Sun Tzu’s incisive type of thinking,
It clarifies my thought – perceivers do;
His insights bear attending to in business,
Investing, and financial work with you.

For Ringer says three types of people gather
Around whenever money changes hands;
Agenda of all three? More chips to gather
Both single-handed and in roving bands.

Type one says, “I will take them, I am coming,
So watch your wrists, for that’s where I’ll attack”;
At least you see him coming (count your blessings,
And set your odds – Sun Tzu advises that).

Type two and three say they don’t want your money,
Which all sounds good except it isn’t true –
Type three just lies, is devious and greedy;
“Mistake I made, I’m sorry” says type two.

There’s other types – like those mature in Jesus;
Objective there? To help you on your way;
And there’s the leach, dependent on your winning;
Then those who share good news (attached with glue).

So know yourself, and know with whom you’re dealing,
That’s part of checking out the score ahead;
Then view the odds with eye to shifting balance –
You might succeed – not from the field be led.

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