28. Ta Kuo / Critical Mass
(Lake above Wind)
Description
The Flood rises above the tallest Tree:
Amidst a rising tide of human folly, the Superior Person retires to higher ground, renouncing his world without looking back.
Any direction is better than where you now stand.
Analysis
Several high-priority concerns demand immediate attention.
All are crucial.
None will be denied.
Yet some demand the denial of others.
Like two atoms seeking to occupy the same space, these irresistible forces and immovable objects threaten to ignite a cataclysm that could irreversibly alter your world.
This is no time for fatal heroics.
You are at Ground Point Zero.
Remove yourself from this situation without delay.
Find sanctuary.
Later you may deal with these concerns on your own terms, from a position of strength.
Changing Lines
Line 1
He cushions the objects with mats of white palm before setting them on the soft grass.
Such overcaution is no mistake.
Line 2
The old willow sprouts new shoots.
An older man takes a young wife.
Good fortune abounds.
Line 3
The supporting beam is bending to its breaking point.
Disaster looms.
Line 4
You come to the rescue and reinforce the supporting structure.
Order and good fortune is restored.
But does your help carry a price?
Line 5
The withered willow blossoms.
An older woman takes a young husband.
No blame, no praise.
Line 6
Fording the flooded stream, he disappears beneath the rushing waters and never resurfaces.
Misfortune through no fault of his own.