#4.Youthful Folly Even the foolish can attain wisdom By modestly following the Sage. Folly is a characteristic of youth: those who have had little experience generally exhibit little wisdom. This is true of us in a Spiritual way as well; in comparison to the Sage we arebabes in the woods. This hexagram counsels us to utilize the I Ching as a lantern so that we may survive our youthful folly and travel safely through the woods of life. There is no shame in seeking guidance in life. A child is eager to be shown the way by his parents and teachers, and we are wise to recognize that in Spiritual terms we are akin to children. Our success will come quicker if we find and follow a wise teacher. The Sage is available to serve in this way for those who approach the I Ching with a sincere desire to learn and grow. To study the I Ching is to gain the perspective of the Deity, to learn the Cosmic lesson inherent in every situation that faces us. If we truly look for and strive to comprehend these larger lessons, we gain mastery over fear, doubt, and anxiety. We can learn from study of the I Ching to live in a state of understanding, contentment, and acceptance, but several things are required of us. The first is that we suspend our distrust of the unknown and allow the Sage to lead us. It is tempting to think that the I Ching might be just a book, merely words on paper, but there is more to it than this. To accept this is to recognize the Sage and become receptive to its assistance. The second thing required of us is that we quiet the demands of our egos for comprehensive answers to our questions about life. The I Ching teaches us not how to get from A to Z but how to get from A to B, Then from B to C, then from C to D. The Sage travels step by step, dealing always with what is immediately at hand and bringing complete focus and concentration to the moment. By doing the same we fall into step with, and receive the help of the Creative power of the Universe. Lastly we are required to unstructure our attitude. By abandoning strategies about people and situations, we let the past and future go and meet the present with an open mind. To be unstructured and open is to allow the Sage to guide us safely and joyfully through life. The image of Youthful Folly is that of a stream beginning to flow down a mountainside, filling each ravine and hollow place as it goes. If we persevere in following the Sage, seeking the counsel of the I Ching, and filling in the gaps in our character as they are revealed, we will be led to a lasting success in life. Changing lines; 1. Those who toy with life never attain mastery. Self-discipline and courageous contemplation are necessary steps to understanding. However, do not become overzealous and drill yourself into the ground. 2. You are wise to bear with inferior elements patiently and kindly. The best way to have an influence now is to cultivate inner strength and outer calm. 5. Children make the best students. Seek truth in an open and unstructured manner and the secrets of the Universe will be revealed. #42 Increase Powerful improvements are underway. The coming of this hexagram signifies a period of increase when the power of Heaven descends to surround and invigorate our lives. Like all phases, this too will come to an end, but if we make hay while the sun shines, tremendous progress can be made at this time. it is in the nature of human beings to relax and become careless when things begin to go well. the I Ching teaches us that we should not do this if we desire the fullest blessings of this beneficial hour. Indeed, our rewards are multiplied if we increase our conscientiousness in auspicious times, rather than decrease it. There are two ways in which the I Ching especially encourages us to do this. Our first task is to make sacrifices to others. In all of your interactions now embody generosity in thought and action. Forgive what is inferior in others and seek out the good. By giving, encouraging, and assisting, you will draw the superior person that is in everyone into devoted action. Your second task in this time of increase is to go on strengthening yourselfas thunder and wind strengthen each other. This means that if you see something good in another, you imitate it, and when you discover something inferior in yourself, you eliminate it. These simple practices, if continued conscientiously over time, will improve your character and fortunes immeasurably. Through service and self-improvement you assure yourself of great progress in the days ahead.
Posted on: Fri, 18 Apr 2014 13:12:48 +0000
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