FIFTY-ONE

震

AROUSING ENERGY

CONCERNS: Shock, confusion, awe, challenges to our illusions; disruptions as a motivation for real change; a time of renewal and hope in which we can resolve to take authentic control of our lives.

1. A shock or fearful circumstance disorients us at first, but we are then motivated to make beneficial corrections in our lives.
2. There are times when we must relinquish what we have or what we are holding on to in order to remove ourselves from danger. When the cycle of danger has passed, we can recover what has been lost. We are strengthened and fortified by undergoing and surviving such traumatic experiences.
3. Seeing the deep meaning behind disturbing events helps us to establish order within our agitated minds.
4. A mind unresponsive to shock is not a useful mind.
5. In the midst of deeply disturbing circumstances, if we keep our balance and attend diligently to the work at hand, we can expect a positive outcome.
6. When shock invades our environment, do we participate in the general anxiety or do we center ourselves at the first sign of difficulty and resolve to keep a stable mind?

COMMENT: Arousing energy experienced as shock shatters old forms, releasing and stimulating life into new possibilities. To the extent that we are attached to form manifestations and not yet conscious of the subtle life within, we react to this disruptive process with fear and loathing.   Through practice we can learn to prevent fear from paralyzing the mind. By practicing steadiness and objectivity in the midst of disruptions we can see the continuity that lies behind the cyclical nature of all forms and events.