by Brian Browne-Walker
By accepting things as they are and not making fruitless comparisons to the situations of others, or some imagined ideal, one engages the power of the Creative.
Though outer conditions appear unpromising, success is possible if you look faithfully for the good in others, yourself, and the situation.
It is a time for moderation in everything. Moderation of enthusiasm keeps you balanced.
Moderation of despair deepens your understanding.
Accept natural limitations. When there is an opening, go forward with balance.
When the way is closed, withdraw willingly into stillness.
Do not enter rashly into a conflict, stand quietly in the center and keep your balance. This enables a true and lasting resolution to be found.
Shock frightens us, and at first we are convinced that it is bad. When we learn the lesson that it has come to teach, we are thankful for it.
Restless effort undermines one’s interests. It is unwise to charge repeatedly at a closed door. Withdraw into stillness and accept both the challenges and the blessings of the day.
The difficulty is coming to a close, but only if one is firm against harshness, doubt, and despair. Help only comes when there is room for it to enter.
One who gives up a stubborn and harsh way of acting will not regret it. No harm comes if you soften now.
Abandon ambitions, anxieties, and agendas. What is necessary and worthwhile arises from the stillness within.
A true change of heart is possible when we accept the necessity of adversity. Peace comes when we discontinue the strivings of the ego.
Look not at the outward situation, but at the effects of your own thoughts and actions.
Through self-contemplation and self-correction, you arrive at a proper understanding.
Remain patient until the Creative does its work. Modesty will bring greater rewards than the aggressive maneuverings of the ego.
The solution to every situation is always available. By remaining open, innocent, and moderate, you allow the Creative to aid you. Do less, not more.
-- Brian Browne-Walker, excerpted from, "The I Ching or Book of Changes: A Guide to Life's Turning Points"
