The I Ching Legends of Heaven

HEAVEN: The Sage Rides Six Dragons to Heaven

Heaven represents the power of creation in the world of  time beyond time.

The Sublime is forever an unchanged and unchangeable force of creation

Supported by the rotation of the seasons, the ways of nature are absolute.

The creative force of the universe organizes the perpetual motion of change.

When I am in harmony, with that which is absolute, many great things can be achieved.

Only those who adhere to the enlightened path

 shall be empowered to influence my will.

DILEMMA: The Dilemma of the Arrogant Dragon

True to their nature, Heaven and Water each move in their own direction.

Those in a high position must be aware of the power of those below.

When I am being obstructed, I look within.

Could I have avoided the confusion which led to the conflict?

First, I must seek advice from those who know me well.

Whether I am right or wrong, I consider what I am willing to do, to gain the peace of mind that comes with resolution.

TREADING: The Tail of the Tiger

With good humor the weak tread upon the strong.

With respect, it is good to take a stand toward those with power.

To assume the role of leadership,

 I inherit the vulnerability of those who must follow.

Not all will conduct themselves in the correct way.

I seek support from those who are cheerful, and content within themselves.

In this way, my efforts are not wasted 

on those whose goals do not support what I intend to achieve.

STAGNATION: The Stagnation of Obstruction

That which can be accomplished has reached its zenith.

Standing still, we contemplate the forces of advance and decline.

It is wise to know when to stand still.

There is a struggle between the light and the dark,

the positive and the negative, the strong and the weak.

This is the way of the world.

Hence the nature of change impacts the lives of the people.

Advance and decline continue on through eternity.

UNION: The Door is Open

The source of power rises bringing strength through the universal force of creation.

The luminaries of Heaven establish awareness of the passing of time.

It is through my willingness, 

to appreciate the opinions of others, 

that I am able to grow and change.

I do not force my divergent views upon my neighbors.

When I am able to yield to the majority,

the door will open to harmony within.

INTUITION: The Innocent Clarity of Intuition

Consciousness is awakened by the unexpected.

The innocence of nature drives the actions of change and transformation.

That which is without 

shall not harm that which is within.

It is my intuition that guides my actions.

Planting my seeds, I know that nature's order and the right timing 

will nurture and support their growth.

Through meditation, I remain connected 

to the universal laws of creation.

RETREAT: Retreat to Freedom

The transformation from light to dark, there is danger from adversity.

The sage withdraws to seek the wisdom of the celestial ruler.

Resisting the demand of subtle dangers, I take no action.

Through experience, I have learned to prepare for the unexpected.

To assure success I quietly withdraw to safety.

Remaining still I contemplate retreat, no matter the cause.

Trusting my desire to remain safe, 

I remain comfortable in my place.

ATTRACTION: The Magnetic Attraction of Temptation

Fundamentally, magnetic attraction rules the world.

The power of nature supports creation for the renewal of life.

Be aware of the intensity of temptation.

Do not be the one that must be constrained.

Adapt to the changes demanded by the times.

When the magnetism of heaven and earth join together, 

the power of attraction is engaged for all.