We sometimes find ourselves in line with adversity when we step outside in inclement weather. Ill-prepared we suffer needlessly because we are not in tune with our environment. The same goes for our demeanor and temperament when we look outside ourselves for the best way forward. The I Ching talks about treading the path of righteousness that for thousands of years has been looked to for guidance and direction. When Confucius came along twenty-five hundred years ago, he upped the anti-instilling virtue as the underlying premise of each individual’s character.
The intent of our heart becomes the ultimate we search for as our own trial and error we live every day. It becomes gaining an understanding and central position of our actions like an internal compass. Not putting ourselves out on a limb before thoughts of climbing the tree ensures that we don’t succumb to injury. It seems this idea of constancy keep appearing. It’s what appreciating underlying contradictions do for us as we gain a foothold on how we are to proceed that may bring us meritorious achievement as we do the right thing by and for all
Adversity can bring good luck with opportunity when we cultivate long-lasting virtue keeping our moral integrity intact. Just don’t leave the house too soon without the wisdom you already possess and be prepared to help and complement all those we encounter.
Number 39 of the I Ching
Exposing Wise Counsel
Stepping outside once the middle of winter has arrived one catches the frigid cold and icy snow that should be keeping all inside.
The same as exposure, integrity coupled with bad news could bring peril. As with the cold, advise not asked for yet given can fall on cold shoulders and die there. Gale warnings abound for those who insist on coming forward with bad tidings. Best intentions are fraught with anguish and frustration for things needing to be said being said then having the consequences falling squarely where they do not belong.
Once discovered, actions that cannot be justified by the light of day are often excused only to find the cover of darkness again at sincerity’s expense. Taking the heat for another’s misstep often leads to the wrong person taking the fall. While the true villain goes on his merry way only to repeat his evil deed another day.
Stay simply within yourself and what the Tao teaches. Be comforted by your own virtue and wisdom and a true sense of understanding in the meaning of all things.
Accept and give wise counsel at face value as the final act to be played before a full house. Taking a bow at the appropriate interlude for appreciation of your ultimate unveiling. Teaching others truth often requires taking risks. Just know enough to be able to give advice another day.
An original composition and interpretation of the Chinese Classic the I Ching (39 ADMONISHMENT / Water over Mountain). 3/ 7/94
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