A true change of
heart is possible when we accept the
necessity of adversity. Peace comes when
we discontinue the strivings
of the ego.
fifth changing line
from The I Ching, or Book of Changes
Hexagram 30, Li / The Clinging (Fire)
(full text here)
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A moment of
great influence is at hand.
Prepare wisely and act
accordingly.
The image of the hexagram Fêng is that of thunder and lightning filling the sky. It signifies a period of tremendous power which, like all such moments, only lasts for a time. Here we are instructed how to know when the moment is ripe, and what to do when it is not.
Our influence in the world naturally ebbs and flows. At one moment others are full of mistrust, and forward movement is impossible. In the next, by steadfastly clinging to what is true and good, we reawaken their receptivity and growth can take place. Only by carefully observing these cycles—the openings and closings of others to our influence—can we achieve greatness.
To do this, we must cultivate an attitude of independent watchfulness. In this state of quiet observation we open our hearts to the aid of the Sage, who in turn opens our eyes to what is possible and what is not. This clarity enables us to move with strength and grace when the time is right, and in this we achieve abundance.
Fêng also advises us that influence cannot last forever; as the sun rises, so it must set. When receptivity gives way to mistrust and our influence begins to wane, we ought not struggle to fortify or prolong it. Modesty and detachment require that we accept the turning of the tide. By letting go of the passing moment and entering the next with a correct and balanced attitude, we save ourselves for a more beneficial time.
The I Ching, or Book of Changes
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In
governing people
and serving heaven, there
is nothing better than moderation.
To be moderate is to follow Tao without straying.
To follow Tao without straying is to become filled with
good energy. To be filled with good energy is to
overcome all things. To overcome all things
is to know that all things are possible.
She who knows that all things are
possible is fit to govern
people.
Because
she is one with the mother,
her roots go deep, her foundation
stands firm, her life lasts
long, her vision
endures.
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If you want to
pass through easily and directly
right now, just let your body and mind become
thoroughly empty, so it is vacant and silent yet aware
and luminous. Inwardly, forget all your conceptions of self,
and outwardly, cut off all sensory defilements.
When inside and outside are clear all the
way through, there is just
one true reality.