11. T'ai / Peace
(Earth above Heaven)
Description
Heaven and Earth embrace, giving birth to Peace.
The Superior Person serves as midwife, presenting the newborn gift to the people.
The small depart; the great approach.
Success.
Good fortune.
Analysis
It doesn't get any better than this.
Everything is in harmony, all obstacles are cleared from your Path, anything you could ask for is right at hand.
This is the Elysian Fields, the Garden of Eden.
The only thing wrong with Peace is that it, too, must change.
Whether you are in this state of harmony now or it is predicted for your future, recognize it as your greatest opportunity to build your resources against less harmonious times.
Changing Lines
Line 1
When the grass is pulled up the earth in which it is firmly rooted comes up with it.
You share your new wealth with loved ones, creating a conduit for even greater fortune.
Line 2
Despite his success, he is gentle to those who impose, he fords the icy stream between him and another, he does not forget his duties to those distant, he does not abandon his companions; he truly walks the Golden Mean.
Line 3
Every plain leads to a slope.
All going leads to a return.
He who keeps his inner faith in the midst of oppression will persevere.
Do not rail against what must be; savor fully what remains.
Line 4
Instead of stretching to grasp the wealth that may rise out of reach, he stoops to help his companions climb to his level.
They expect his resentment but receive only his faith and love; they no longer fear his power.
Line 5
The emperor gives his blessing to his daughter's marriage to a commoner.
All ranks of life benefit from this.
Line 6
The wall crumbles into the moat.
Such overfortification and defensiveness will cause you more loss than if you had remained totally exposed and had opened your arms to fate.