Although a person usually forms a question, then tosses coins to select an aspect, I have chosen number 21, Reform, as the focus of this exploration. Keeping in mind that social reform runs parallel with the personal, here are some suggestions:
"The time calls for energetic reform. A situation that has developed at cross purposes to your life is interfering with the attainment of your aims.
"In dealing with social and political affairs, a strict adherence to justice is necessary. A society without principles or clarity about its laws is a group of people who are going nowhere. Now is the time to support persons who can bring about social reform.
"Personal relationships without defined guidelines, reasonable expectations, reciprocal considerations, and clear plans for the future are now in danger of dissolving in the chaos being generated by the current situation. There are times to avoid confrontations, to sublimate deep feelings, or to retreat and await a more opportune time for action. This is not one of those times.
"There could not be a more appropriate time to examine your character and determine the extent to which any delusions, rationalizations, or habits have usurped control of your judgement. Vague principles, as a rule, will make life an undirected, uninspired, meaningless act. Know what you want, what makes you feel good about Self, what brings you in to harmony with others. These are your guidelines. Other factors that assume control of your behavior and your health, or create inner discord, are the obstacles that must be overcome. Be firm, gentle, and clear in annihilating them and therefore re-forming your Self and your environment."
Each of the 64 aspects has six possible changing lines, representing different stages in time. The fourth seems appropriate here:
"The task facing you is indeed difficult. That which you must overcome is in a powerful position. Be firm and perservering once you begin. Good results come only by being alert and exercising continuous effort."
Being true to your Self, your Friend, your People. Such is the essence of Reform.
(Excerpts from The I Ching Work Book by R. L. Wing, Doubleday, 1979)
Copyright Mendocino Environmental Center 2000
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