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53. Development
The Lines
Bottom. [6] A young man seeking the path of wisdom and truth
starts out with no one to help him. He must struggle along on his own, it is
difficult for him to discern the right path, and his progress is slow and
hesitant. He is honest and open, but he is also determined, and this subjects
him to frequent criticism. The difficulties and the criticisms act as
guideposts, however, and prevent him from settling too quickly into an improper
path. But because he is sincere and really tries to do what is right, he will
ultimately succeed.
2. [6] A man finds success, and his first impulse is that he
wishes to share it with his friends. After a long period of uncertainty, when
finally the man has some security, it is natural that he feels a certain amount
of elation and confidence. What better way to celebrate one's good fortune than
to invite a few friends over? His purpose is not to glorify himself, but to
share and be generous.
3. [9] A man, in his anxiety to move ahead, pushes too hard
and brings himself and those close to him into danger. He was not content to
move forward one step at a time, but tried to leap ahead hastily, and this is
seen as threatening by those above him. This need not have happened if the man
had been reasonable and willing to let things develop naturally, i.e., if he
had been willing quietly to take the smallest possible step forward, and
reserve further movement for a later time. Nevertheless, if the man will hold
steady now and not agitate for a better position, but will be content to remain
where he is and only defend what he has accomplished thus far, he can avoid a
disaster.
4. [6] A man's path takes an unintended turn. He is
uncomfortable with the situation that he has gotten into and the way it has
developed. He fears that it might not turn out well for him, and that he will
have much to regret if he is not careful. This is a time for him to avoid any
aggressive moves and to remain flexible. He should be content to hold back,
remain where he is, avoid difficult situations, and not try to push higher at
this time. He should withdraw from the forefront, avoid a leadership role, and
find a safe place on the sidelines. In this way, he can continue to hold on to
whatever he has gained up until now, even though there are dangerous situations
developing around him.
5. [9] The man has achieved a high position, and his work
figures prominently in the eyes of many. But his accomplishments have tended to
isolate him from others, and this isolation creates mistrust and
misunderstanding. His actions and motives are misinterpreted, and he is looked
upon with suspicion. Other persons who mean him no good are only too glad to
suggest behind his back that he has been acting improperly. As a result, all that
he is attempting to accomplish comes to a standstill, and he seems to have lost
the confidence of everyone. But if he will just hold on patiently, these
questions about himself will eventually be resolved. Because everything was
based on doubts, not facts, when the elements in doubt do not devolve into real
misconduct, the doubts will evaporate, and the man will find himself back in
the good graces of those who are important to him.
Top. [9] The man's work is over. He has accomplished great
things, and he is honored and revered. He has "fought the good
fight," and his work has been a real benefit to mankind. He has known the
fullness of having lived a meaningful life. What he leaves behind is considered
by all who knew him as a treasure, and his entire life is pointed to as an
example of how a good man should strive to conduct his life -- not for himself
alone, but engaged in service to his fellow man.
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