I Ching

 This book has long held a fascination for me, not so much for its power, but for its approach.  The natural cycle of things, observable in every aspect of existence, follows definite patterns.  To perceive these patterns, and move with them, is as close to virtue as I know.  It is, of course, not a book to be read, per se.  Rather I prefer to let it read me.  Accordingly, this written response is not a typical reaction.  I may never read the entire book, and do not intend to keep strict track of which hexagrams have come up for me as though it was a collection of baseball cards.  The commentary and explication in this edition by Hua-Ching Ni were invaluable, and offered a depth that will no doubt continue to yield insight.  But for now, I simply record the books response to my inquiry:

"What is the most important principle for me to apply at this point in my spiritual awakening?"

As ever, the answer does not disappoint:

Hexagram 21: Shih Ho, Biting through hardship.  The task ahead is difficult, and must be met with two forces, brought together to meet in the middle.  The task is, of course, that of existence and awakening.  The forces are that from above, the Yang, and that from below, the Yin.  As with the jaws, the above is resolute, immobile, unchanging; the below is fluid, adaptable.  Bringing them together will bring in order: pain, poison, gold, and finally success.

The challenge of facing my existence, ceasing to avoid it, and embracing the challenge of maintaining equilibrium--especially in the classroom--is no small task.  But it can be accomplished, and will bring about the result:

Hexagram 40: Hsieh, dissolution of the problem.  Ni here reference a story from Chuang Tzu that I have long held dear: the butcher's knife does not dull, because in his mind the joint are already separated.  My confidence in the eventual outcome, the true nature of reality as a whole and in my part individually, is justified.  All is unity, abundance, and perfection, and so shall it be revealed.