THIRTY-SEVEN |
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家人 |
FAMILY
CONCERNS: Harmonizing the energies of individuals into group cooperation; mutual respect and responsibility; the integration of male and female energies.
- Order, structure and discipline are necessary in a family and in a group, forming the correct guidance for lawful growth.
- Here, since others depend on us, we must fulfill our duties and obligations even if they conflict with our personal wishes.
- Firmness is needed within a family but not repression. Leniency is appropriate but not indulgence. The correct balance is subtle but real, and if we deviate from it, it should be on the side of firmness.
- One stable, responsible member can anchor an entire family.
- When we have mastered ourselves, our loving personality exerts the correct influence throughout our family.
- When we have mastered ourselves, our soul-infused personality naturally commands respect and our family flourishes.
COMMENT: ”One’s influence on others must proceed from one’s own person. In order to be capable of producing such an influence, one’s words must have power, and this they can have only if they are based on something real… Words have influence only when they are pertinent and clearly related to definite circumstances. General discourses and admonitions have no effect whatsoever. Furthermore, the words must be supported by one’s entire conduct… Only firm and consistent conduct will make such an impression on others that they can adapt and conform to it. If words and conduct are not in accord and not consistent, they will have no effect.” [1]
REFERENCES
- ^ Wilhelm, R., & Baynes, C. F. (1977). The I Ching or Book of Changes: The Richard Wilhelm Translation Rendered Into English. (p. 144-5) Bollingen Series, Princeton University Press