20. Kuan / Contemplation
(Wind above Earth)
Description
The gentle Wind roams the Earth:
The Superior Person expands his sphere of influence as he expands his awareness.
Deeply devoted to his pursuit of clarity and wisdom, he is unconscious of the inspiring, positive example he is setting for others to emulate.
You have cleansed yourself; now stand ready to make your humble, devout offering.
Analysis
The situation marks a rising to new heights.
As you climb for a better view of the panorama, you make yourself more conspicuous to those below.
This hexagram is also known as the Watchtower, because the shape formed by its lines resembles the ancient guardposts manned by Chinese soldiers.
These towers were placed on mountainsides to give a better vantage point.
To those below, the watchtowers served as landmarks to help them find their way.
The quality of your search for clarity in this situation serves as such a guidepost for others along the Way.
Changing Lines
Line 1
You look at things like a child.
This is pardonable in a lesser man, but a fatal flaw in one of your calibre.
Line 2
Peeking from behind a screen may ensure your privacy, but it offers you only a partial view.
Line 3
By looking back over the course of your life, you will know if this is a time for advance or retreat.
Line 4
Observe the leader firsthand to decide the worthiness of the cause.
Line 5
His future is shaped by the quality of his influence on others in the past.
Be blameless.
Line 6
He contemplates his own integrity without regard to the good or bad consequences his actions may have wrought.
Stand or fall, he must be true to himself.