accept the way that things are

Do not argue with

what is; simply follow the

progress of truth.

Wisdom teaches us that in order to obtain a following — the aid and agreement of others — we must first ourselves practice following. This is done by steadfastly observing what is correct and putting it into practice; in other words, we follow the Sage. This hexagram comes to remind you to make it possible for others to be loyal and helpful to you by redevoting yourself to following inner truth.

It is essential now to quietly accept the way that things are. This does not necessarily mean that you endorse or celebrate current circumstances, just that you do not resist them. Acceptance is the most fundamental principle in the philosophy of the I Ching. To resist events is similar to resisting the turning of the earth – you only exhaust yourself in vain.

To resolve a difficult situation, follow the good within yourself. Whatever correction is necessary is made possible in this way. The use of force or cunning will only breed resentment and misfortune. Peace blooms quickest where proper principles are given expression.

Leading others is a delicate art, and our model in this is always the Sage. Proceed gently, with balance, staying unattached to results and free of egotistical pretensions. Lead the people by following the Sage, and good results will always be had.

The I Ching, or Book of Changes

Hexagram 17, Sui / Following

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humility is the root of greatness

gansbaai

Humility is the

root of greatness. Those in high

positions do well to think of themselves

as powerless, small and

unworthy.

Isn’t this

taking humility for the root?

Attain honor without being honored.

Don’t shine like jade, or

chime like bells.

The Tao te Ching of Lao Tzu,

Chapter 39

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Wei wu Wei Ching, Hua hu Ching, and

Art of War for iPad/Phone, Kindle,

Nook, or Android

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Tao te Ching as part of a

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the taming power of the great

In the face of

rising tension, keep still.

Honor in practice what you have

learned from the

I Ching.

A difficult and challenging time must be taken as an opportunity to express in the outer world our highest inner principles. This hexagram counsels us to keep still under pressure and embody the virtues of the I Ching. In this way even the most arduous trials can be successfully met.

Others are often tempted to test the inner strength that we have gained through study and discipline. By pushing and prodding they hope to reveal the weakness of our connection to truth. If we allow them to do this, we are undermined, and they go on, unlearning and satisfied at having engineered our downfall. On the other hand, if we keep still and cling firmly to what is right—the power of the great—then eventually we can tame the negative energy and instill in others the desire to grow spiritually.

It is just such challenges to our strength and character that enable us over time to embody in practice the strength of the I Ching. A spiritual understanding that is not practiced under fire is without value; only by applying our knowledge in trying situations do we come into genuine possession of it. So use these tests as opportunities to purify your thoughts and actions. By holding to what is correct in the face of pressure, you gain the strength and peace of mind of the spiritual masters.

If you deviate from the path of the Sage and act to punish or condemn others now, misfortune will result. Instead, meet attacks with stillness, acceptance, and fidelity to proper principles. Treat others with gentleness, patience, and forgiveness. If you are steadfast in this, good fortune will ultimately be yours.

from The I Ching, or Book of Changes

Hexagram 26: Ta Ch’u 大畜 The Taming Power of the Great