The Gate of Narrative
Other Names: The Listener, The Fellowship of Man, Companionship
Biology: liver
Archetypal Insight from the I Ching, by Ma Deva Padma; when this description resonates, a shift from novice expression to wisdom is likely imminent:
The focus is on human relationships – how each person can best realize his or her individual potential within a love relationship, a family, or the larger community, and how a gathering of individuals can come together and function as a harmonious whole.
Working together toward common goals strengthens the connections between people and enriches the larger community. There is a special warmth that comes from combining forces, or gathering together with others of like mind. It is easier to withstand hardship with the support of the community, and the joyful moments of life are even sweeter when they can be celebrated with friends. Put quite simply, we need one another. Our individual qualities are uniquely ours, but they are polished and refined through interaction with others.
The willingness to be open with unequivocal respect for each individual’s uniqueness is the lubricant that keeps relationships running smoothly. A deep trust gradually develops between those who share a common vision and work respectfully side by side toward its realization. No matter how diverse our backgrounds may be, when we come together in an atmosphere of sincerity and trust, we can actualize even our most utopian dreams. As each member of a partnership contributes in his or her own way to the achievement of a shared goal, the bonds between individuals in that endeavor are strengthened.
It takes time for our roots to grow strong in common ground with others. The strengthening happens over time and through all kinds of climates. The totality with which we can share our capacities and talent is the litmus test of how nourished we feel by the association. If we find ourselves withholding energy or wavering about whether to stay or go, it is a sign that we are not ready within ourselves to make any commitment, or that we simply have not found the partner or fellow travelers we are seeking.
This said, in an atmosphere of trust, no one is monitoring how much is given or judging what form a contribution should take. In an environment where comparison is the rule and where the norm is for everyone to be constantly measuring himself against the other guy, trust is impossible. Every individual has a part to play in the greater scheme of things, and although a structure might be needed for the smooth functioning of a group, it has nothing to do with hierarchy. Real unity – the kind of unity that distinguishes a community from a mere crowd – lies in a profound quality of mutual respect and a deeply felt recognition of the value of each and every participant.
Finally, a spirit of harmony among friends, between lovers, or within a community needs to be centered around a core that serves as a kind of invisible glue to hold things together. This can be an individual who is loved and respected by all, or it can be a shared understanding and vision of life that moves in the hearts of each.
The Changes (additional insight for applying the Line of an activated Gate)
Line 1 – Investigator/Information
The one-man band has no real place in the nurturing of fellowship. Instead, fellowship is like an orchestra. There are many different instruments, each with its own capacity for making music. Alone they have a beauty in their own right; together, they can create something larger than the sum of the parts. If you have an opportunity to play in an orchestra, take it – it can add a richness of experience that will also enhance your solo performances.
Line 2 – Responder/Hermit
Whether companionship takes the form of an intimate relationship between two people or a larger community of family and friends, it is vital that each person’s individual strengths have room to grow and that they avoid creating relationships of dependence. When individual strengths are united in accordance with inner truth, they create an energy field that can manifest heaven on earth.
Line 3 – Explorer
To be on the journey through life with another can be a tremendous blessing if both are mindful of the fact that change is the nature of things. It may be that a moment of parting comes sooner than expected, or the companionship might grow stronger over many years, finally to be altered only by the transformation of death. But it is wise to remember that you entered this life alone and you will leave it alone. This awareness can bring a tender, poignant quality to your deepest relationships.
Line 4 – Stabilizer
There are times in the life of every individual when it seems more important to be on a solitary path than to travel together with others. Both choices are equally valid, and there is no need for any antagonism or judgment when an individual decides to go it alone. No matter on what side of the coin you might find yourself – the one who is leaving, or the one who is being left – remember this.
Line 5 – Visionary Leader
When relationships don’t work out as you have hoped, it can cause much pain, but unlike other kinds of pain, this one is an experience that nearly everybody passes through at some time, or many times, in their lives. Don’t hesitate to open up with friends and express your feelings. They will understand, and the sharing will help you to heal.
Line 6 – Adept/Role Model
Not every love affair has to be an earth-moving experience, and not every gathering has to have an agenda to change the world, Remember that life is a balance of earth and sky, laughter and tears, sacred and mundane. And take care that your life has a little lightness to balance the weight.
Other aspects
Astrological Sign: Aquarius
Dynamics: Clinging (fire) + Yang/Creative (heaven)
Color: yellow + white
Attributes: enlightening, clarifying, communicative, intelligent + authority, strength, power, inspiring
Action(s): to radiate and empower
Developmental: conception + transformation/death