The verse

The tide turns at the ford; cling not to vanished sailsYesterday's boats have drifted past, the waters running eastTrace the river home, draw from the deep and ancient springIts own clear current shall bear your little craft along

Reading

This slip bids you chase no ebbing tide, pine for no sail long passed. Return to your source, draw from the deep spring, and stand on your own roots; the boat moves as the waters allow. Tend your craft, and leave fortune to heaven.

The temple keeper adds

A high lot. Don't take it as a guarantee; take it as leave to walk on, easy.

[ Draw another at the temple ][ Keep a traffic omamori ]