Do we have to be like our parents?

Do we have to be like our parents?

A question from the field; do we have to be like our parents?

Original hexagram is Lake over Mountain; 31
The Expansion is Heaven over Mountain; 33
The Kernel is Heaven over Heaven; 1 BY WAY OF Heaven over Wind; 44

The interesting thing about our relationships with our parents is that it’s, well, karma.  There is an attraction between us and our parents, and it’s really nothing more than karmic consequences coming to fruition. The I Ching refers to it as the laws of nature, “…powers that attract each other, so they unite.”  While we are growing up, ideally our parents look after us and take care of us. Most of the time we are receptive to their giving but pretty soon we enter a stage where we don’t really want to follow their advice, be like them, and want to branch out and be different people.  If it has been a difficult relationship, we may want to be completely different from them, and actually work at not having any similarities.

Whether we get along with our parents or not, we do venture off and find our way.  This is our own karma ripening and as each potential is exhausted it moves us in one direction or the other.  We may find ourselves distant from our parents for some time  as we travel our path seeking our own desires and journeys.  During this period of time, ideally, we grow and develop, learning to appreciate our parents for what they were able to give us.  Being able to forgive the misgivings, and having compassion for our parents is a sign of progress and inner strength.

Ultimately, our relationship with our parents can be instrumental in our development along our spiritual journey.  Forgiving our parents, and loving them unconditionally, regardless of their development, can and will bring us ease and peace~this is the power of compassion.  We can set the example for our parents, living our lives as virtuous and kind people will have a positive impact on them and our relationship with them. Another important note is that by developing ourselves we become stronger with our discernment and attractions; letting go of what no longer serves us and allowing what does to rise.

Have a wonderful Tuesday.  Think of your parents and make heartfelt prayers of gratitude.  May all beings see the benefit of kindness.