For those truly wishing for inspiring effect, it takes willingness for deep contemplation, which can lead to transformation. Transformation is not only for oneself, but for those who witness it. In other words, our transformation can set an example for others through inspiration, thus leading other people to their own transformations. This level of contemplation however requires self honesty and seriousness. Contemplation into our habits allows us to reflect upon our lives mission and self commitment to change, to benefit other. The text indicates that through the power of deep and profound contemplation, looking at habit close up and far away, enables a spiritual “power” to rise in us, “influencing others without their being aware of how it happens.”
This week’s question provoke the following hexagrams:
The original is Wind over Earth; 20
The expansion is Heaven over Fire; 13
The kernel is Earth over Earth; 2 BY WAY OF Mountain over Earth; 23
While we may not have the intention or motivation for our own transformations to impact others, they will. This is important to reflect upon because the laws of karma will place us in various environments, and our influences upon other people becomes critical to our own karma and spiritual practices and Path. Reflection and contemplation upon one’s habits is a transitional time, and can lead one to cultivate new, more beneficial habits. Ideally, we are motivated to always bring benefit in some way. This motivation comes from an inner strength to cultivate beneficial habits.
Something important to note when contemplating upon habits, is that generally speaking, one benefits most by being in fellowship. Why is this? It is through the power of interaction with other that the true test of habit presents itself, thus allowing the space and time to see one’s faults in order to change them. Therefore it really does further one to be engaged with fellowship; developing a perseverance for the Path.
We spend our lives endlessly in search of happiness, becoming tiresome. It is through a perseverance for the Path that we can reach our ultimate goal of enlightenment. A key to reaching this goal is constant evaluation of our habits, so yes, it is important to pay attention to them. Through this process we gain clarity and proper discernment. We need our spiritual friends for interaction and engagement, and we need our Teachers for guidance through troubled waters. Cultivating new habits brings breadth and purity to our character, enabling support and the ability to bear the obstacles that one will encounter along their spiritual journey.
Lastly, the ultimate outcome does not come by running away, rather, one must remain still with devotion. There are times to be active, and times to contemplate, and with the guidance of one’s Teacher, and spiritual friendships and fellowship, one can ride the ebb and flow of a turbulent ocean.
Have a wonderful week, enjoy your practices and contemplate deeply and profoundly upon your habits, because it is important, and it matters.
Learn more about the I Ching on the I Ching page!
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