35: Easy Progress

The situation is one of easy, natural progress. What has been weak is ascending, and by gaining a prominent position, will become more powerful. One image here is the light of the rising sun, which at first appears dimly through the mists. But this same light will radiate with powerful clarity once the sun has reached its high position in the sky.

Progress is made when those in supporting positions make peace with those in leadership, and in so doing, create a natural means for their talents and abilities to become more visible. It is by recognizing and riding with the natural course of events—by hitching our wagon to the rising sun, as it were—that we advance our position and earn respect.

Goodness in human nature is like the dim but beautiful early morning light. However, just as the morning light can be swallowed by the fog, greed, hatred, and other forms of self-absorption can obscure this goodness. Be reminded that progress is achieved most effortlessly when right action is taken without concern for immediate reward, and when the path of the weaker aligns with that which is strong.

Changing Line Interpretations

Line 1 (bottom line)

Progress seems to be thwarted. If you lack confidence now, remain calm and accept that your influence may not be strong enough yet to achieve great progress. Though advancement may be fervently desired, the hour for you to play a leading role has not yet come. Do not feel downhearted or resentful if no one is paying a lot of attention to you. Remain calm and dedicated, and you will avoid serious mistakes that could halt your progress altogether.

Line 2

A lack of progress can be caused simply by a lack of the right contacts. Though this is disheartening, progress will cease entirely if you push too hard with people who have not had a chance to develop trust in you. By remaining steadfast in your efforts now, important people may notice and help you along—but only at their own pace. Avoid becoming too frustrated because of slow progress. Try to be patient.

Line 3

Pushing ahead brings good fortune! With the support of those above and below, progress is unstoppable.

Line 4

In times of great progress, it is easy for influential people to accumulate wealth. When assets are acquired by devious means, however, sooner or later, the facts will come to light. Be careful! Proceeding with questionable behavior will certainly lead to misfortune.

Line 5

When one is in a position of service to others who wield more power, a gentle and benevolent attitude will further the interests of the whole. You may berate yourself for not being more aggressive and for not taking greater advantage of your position, but opportunities for small gains can be passed up now for the sake of greater good fortune in the long run.

Line 6 (top line)

When strong, energetic action is required to achieve progress, make certain that your ducks are in a row before you start. Be particularly careful to avoid the overly energetic initiatives of people with whom you don’t have a close relationship. If a bridge can’t handle the weight, don’t use it.