The Gate of Compassion
Other Names: Extremes, Modesty
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:
We live in a world that reveres extraordinariness. Sooner or later nearly everyone fantasizes about being admired for their brilliance, and the guarantee of happiness from gaining fame, fortune, and adoration because of it. Rarely do we come across anyone who is content to be simply ordinary. Craving anything new, exciting, or glamorous, we imagine how our lives could be different; worrying about how the world sees us or wondering whether the grass might be greener in the other fellow’s garden keeps us discontented and preoccupied to the point of distraction.
Paradoxically, persons who live simply and who wholeheartedly focus on attending to life in the moment already stand out from the crowd. Modest individuals aren’t concerned with the doings of others; they simply get on with living their lives to the best of their ability. A modest approach now will ensure your success, perhaps surpassing those who are busy creating a reputation. Be willing to remain in the background, not calling attention to yourself or your efforts; the nature of your efforts will be respected once it comes to light.
Modesty is a virtue that is highly respected in leaders, because their moderation works toward the common good and can be counted upon regardless of circumstances. As a natural consequence of their balanced nature, moderate individuals have a healthy self-respect, taking care not only of others but of their own needs as well. Look within for clarity while remaining open to what is happening, and weigh all things in the balance before drawing conclusions. Even if it means going against prevailing opinion, follow the guidance of your intuitive knowing.
If you act immoderately by overextending yourself physically, mentally, or emotionally, exhaustion and complications are sure to result. Moderation is modesty in action that keeps things simple, enabling us to discern more easily when we are moving toward extremes and what to do about it. Simplicity creates spaciousness; whether we are clearing unnecessary clutter from a room or from our minds, the result is not only refreshing and expansive but a new perspective is gained as well.
Meditation will realign you to the intrinsic spaciousness within yourself, allowing you to become alert and attentive to the present moment as it unfolds. It restores inner equilibrium that has been lost by stress. Keeping your awareness in the present moment puts an end to struggle and provides you with room to respond creatively from moment to moment. It gently and subtly engenders nourishing qualities of self-acceptance and forgiveness, while diminishing negative habits like seeing yourself as a victim of circumstance. A good deal of humility, alertness, and patience is required for any transformation, and these qualities are nourished by meditation.
It takes maturity to understand that specialness invariably becomes a prison, and that equanimity is freedom from extremes. Taking responsibility for the choices you make can be the beginning of an overdue humbling process. Start where you are now, and correct any imbalances brought on by immoderate thoughts or behavior. Then you are in alignment with the modest quest for what is sincere and true in yourself.
The Changes (additional insight for applying the Line of an activated Gate)
Line 1 – Investigator/Information
Carefully considering each step you take will create depth and steadiness in your actions and composure. That is all that is needed in order to be successful in whatever you take on.
Line 2 – Responder/Hermit
Others recognize and are attracted to your modest nature. Your sincerity and integrity speak volumes. You are respected for who you are, and your gentle influence has positive and far-reaching effects.
Line 3 – Explorer
Your tenacity and care in attending to the smallest details has generated more than enough support to create something of real value. By working in harmony with the Tao (universal/divine Flow), unconcerned with praise or recognition, you are setting the tone for achieving great success. It may come as a surprise to learn that you can become a source of inspiration to others.
Line 4 – Stabilizer
Remembering to consider the implications of what you say and do helps you to take responsibility, act with authority, and stay in touch with others and the requirements of the time. Moderation is about creating order and balance, and not about appearing self-effacing or weak.
Line 5 – Visionary Leader
Do not make the mistake of confusing modesty with overcompliance or passivity. Be watchful and act accordingly whenever you sense that correction is needed. By keeping your actions above reproach, practicing moderation, and avoiding any tendency toward egotism, you will have continued success.
Line 6 – Adept/Role Model
You are being asked, either by others or through your own intuition, to take matters in hand, which may require accepting a leadership role. To deny this by claiming unworthiness would be misplaced modesty and self-indulgence. The demands of the time are such that you must be clear and decisive in your own thinking, so take time to consider what is needed, then be 100 percent available for what must be done.
Other aspects
Astrological Sign: Gemini
Dynamics: Keeping Still (mountain) + Yin/Receptive (earth)
Color: dark green + black
Attributes: rest, meditation, stillness, enduring + yielding, supportive, devotional, intuitive
Action(s): to limit and give away
Developmental: maturity + womb