FORTY-THREE

夬

BREAKTHROUGH

CONCERNS: Moving to the next stage; focused intent leading to a change of condition; the non­-combative dissolution of negative forces.

1. We should refrain from overestimating the capacity to confront a present difficulty. Do not take action yet.
2. Thorough preparation equips us to confront difficulties without anxiety; watch and wait, avoiding impulsive reactions or premature engagement.
3. It is difficult to break through negative situations without energizing the opposition. If, however, we are both inwardly resolved and outwardly cooperative, we can succeed.
4. Here we are pressing ahead on a difficult task in the face of clear indications and advice to the contrary, creating a dangerous situation out of our stubbornness and lack of patience.
5. We need to be firmly resolved and evenhanded when we are eliminating negativity.
6. When a negative element is about to be eliminated within or without, we need to redouble our attention and resolve, or the negativity will find a way to reenter and reestablish itself.

COMMENT: The Chinese character for this hexagram signifies a revolutionary change. When we set out on a spiritual path or on a mundane project, there is often the tendency to rush toward achievement in order to secure a new state. Such an impulse should be resisted, for it invites defeat. Real progress and real change are generated from the accumulation of consistent efforts —the shared meaning indicated by these words: practice, craftsmanship, persistence, commitment, appropriateness. When we have become prepared and ready, there is no resistance to the next stage of development or change; there is no leap, we just take the next step.