More than forty years ago while I was a state representative here in Springfield (1979-80), and afterwards I helped to form the Westside Community Betterment Association. Several people in the area felt neglected by the city and we were able to get a neighborhood plan detailing improvements approved by the city council. The neighborhood then spent several years implementing the plan and served as the springboard for my own city planning career in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Florida. Doing master plans became the emphasis of my efforts before I retired. Disappearing fences becomes the key to our own seeing beyond present limitations to what can occur when we can see beyond ourselves.
The narrative, or commentary, I am writing today in February 2025 about the I Ching, seems like a profile of what was to occur as the future unfolded many years earlier. I was immersing myself in the authentic experiences that would last a lifetime, there could be no rush. Now, I want to slow down and try to remember what was drawing me to Chinese history, the I Ching, and Lao, Chuang, and Lieh Tzu.
I had begun this journey less than three month earlier and what I was writing had completely consumed my energies. I was not only writing about it, but my writing also became like an umbilical cord feeding me what was to define me in the future. A few years later when I was writing an entry in the manuscript entitles “My travels with Lieh Tzu”, a line came forth to say… what you write is who you are yet to become. But for now, I was still in the introductory stage of what was to become a life-long journey.
Number 11 of the I Ching
Disappearing Fences
The dragons prefer peace and take no action otherwise. Turning their heads to all knowing that conflict defeats all.
Neighbors may build good fences. However, it will be fences that good neighbors build together that remain standing against common enemies. Expect hardship even among friends knowing what is important and what obstacles can be expected. Encounter difficulties in peace and success is assured.
Do not proceed alone in times of controversy. Surround yourself and be protected and protect others as well. Act appropriately with both friends and neighbors always maintaining close relationships.
Being at peace within oneself ensures that those close by will not become enemies but instead are simply waiting for an opportunity to become your friend. All the while not taking advantage of another’s downfall.
At the same time knowing that your own carelessness and lack of judgment may be your own. Find peace and the fences good neighbors build may ultimately disappear like dragons riding on clouds in the sky.
An original composition and interpretation of the Chinese Classic the I Ching (11 PEACE / Earth over Heaven). 2/9/94
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