54. The Marrying Maiden
The Lines
Bottom. [9] A man who is a newcomer and a subordinate has an
excellent relationship with the head man, who has taken a liking to him and
will help him along. It is important, however, that this newcomer keep himself
quietly in the background, and not try to step out in front of the other
subordinates who are of higher rank than he. This might seem to place him at a
greater disadvantage than need be, and he might think it will prevent him from
accomplishing some of the tasks he is capable of. But by not pushing himself
forward and maintaining a friendly
relationship with subordinates of higher rank, he can still accomplish many
things without seeming a threat to the others, although he may not enjoy as
much status and recognition as he would like.
2. [9] A man feels he has fallen out of favor. Whereas he
had hopes of a productive relationship with the head man, the head man seems to
ignore him and leaves him to his own devices. The man feels abandoned and
shut-out, and this is a great disappointment to him. But he remains loyal and
does not depart. He accepts his situation and resolves to accomplish as much as
he can, regardless of the apparent neglect. Perhaps things will change for the
better in time, but he remains steady, even though there is no assurance that
his situation will improve.
3. [6] A man is in a position of little status, and yearns
for something better. He is unable to move ahead through the ordinary
competitive channels, however, and chooses to make headway in a way that is not
flattering to his reputation, even though it is not exactly illegal or wrong.
Thus, there is a trade-off: he gains some of the advantages that he so eagerly
seeks, but he is not thought highly of because of what he must do to win these gains.
His gains entail some losses. The choice is his. It is a real choice with real
consequences, however. If he stays where he is, it is unlikely he will never
move ahead.
4. [9] This man is in a position of little status, but he
decides that he would rather remain where he is than do something that is
somewhat less than honorable in order to make advancements. Opportunities seem
to pass him by, and true to his choice, he remains in a position of little
status. But eventually his better character is recognized, he is honored for
his faithfulness and integrity, and somewhat belatedly he receives a position
that is just as good as that which he might have obtained had he been less
circumspect. In the end, he acquires what he had hoped for and does so with his
reputation completely intact.
5. [6] A man of high status and good reputation takes a
position of lower rank than he previously held. Where others might see this as
an embarrassing or even humiliating step down, he accepts the position with
dignity and sees it only as an opportunity
to continue his work and to be of service to his fellow man, though with much
less pressure. He looks askance at all concerns about rank, class and pride,
and focuses instead on the task at hand. As a result, all goes well, the
relaxed situation suits him, and he has great success.
Top. [6] A man occupies a high position, but it has little
meaning for him. He performs his tasks perfunctorily, but his heart is not in
it. He is looked upon as a worthless drudge and a bureaucratic plodder. He
accomplishes little, he has no influence, and little self-respect. Nothing good
could come of him.
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