Resource proposals unaccompanied by a sworn budgeting indicate a plot

Humble words and increased preparations are signs that the enemy is about to advance. Violent language and driving forward as if to the attack are signs that he will retreat.

When the light chariots come out first and take up a position on the wings, it is a sign that the enemy is forming for battle.

Peace proposals unaccompanied by a sworn covenant indicate a plot.

When there is much running about and the soldiers fall into rank, it means that the critical moment has come.

When some are seen advancing and some retreating, it is a lure.

From "Sun Tzu on the Art of War - The Oldest Military Treatise in the World"

Translated from the Chinese By Lionel Giles, M.A. (1910)

Discussion:

Another challenging part. Here the enemy is translated into health policies which often cause headache to health professionals.

Translation:

Humble words and increased preparations are signs that the new health policy is about to advance. Violent language and driving forward as if to the attack are signs that the policy will be discarded.

When the temporary plans come out first and take up a position on the budget, it is a sign that the policy is forming for reform.

Resource proposals unaccompanied by a sworn budgeting indicate a plot.

When there is much running about and the secretaries fall into offices, it means that the critical moment has come.

When some are seen advancing and some retreating, it is a lure.

Ray Murakami