41 損 Decrease
Judgement
Reducing is also a way of gaining. If there is sincerity, the prospects are good: little risk of error, firmness you can keep up, and an advantage in whatever you undertake. Even in a sacrifice, two baskets of grain are enough, though there is nothing more. The simple, offered truthfully, has worth. Ask yourself what you can strip away of the superfluous to keep what is truly yours.
Image
A mountain over a lake: the lake water slowly evaporates and the mountain does not change. The wise person restrains their anger and curbs their desires. Lowering what is below to support what is above is an image of self-control: less outburst, less craving. Ask yourself what impulse you could let pass today without acting, and how much peace you would gain.
Lines
Line 1
You suspend your affairs and hurry to help someone. You are unlikely to go wrong, but think how much of what is yours it helps to give. Giving without measure leaves you without resources next time. Ask yourself how much you can offer without neglecting what is yours.
Line 2
It helps you to stay firm and upright; acting would be a bad idea. You can contribute to another without taking anything from yourself. There is a way to help that does not drain you: giving presence, advice, well-chosen time. Ask yourself whether what pushes you to give is generosity or fear of disappointing.
Line 3
Of three who walk together, one is left behind; and the one who goes alone finds a friend. This is the image of the right number: three is a crowd, two is a pair. Sometimes losing someone from the group allows a deeper bond. Ask yourself whether a relationship has become confused by too many voices.
Line 4
You reduce your ailment by having someone come quickly to your aid, and that gladdens them. You are unlikely to go wrong. Asking for help in time eases you, and gives another the joy of giving it. Do not be ashamed to ask. Ask yourself whom you would ask.
Line 5
Others add to you ten pairs of tortoise shells and will not accept your refusal. That is a real advantage: you receive more than you expected, so you may not be able to decline. When something good comes through clean channels, accept it with gratitude. Ask yourself whether you refuse gifts because you feel you do not deserve them.
Line 6
You give to others without taking anything from yourself. You are unlikely to go wrong, and with firmness and integrity that is a good sign. Any move has an advantage, and helpers outnumber clans. Here giving and receiving no longer oppose each other. Ask yourself how to offer in a way that makes the receiver feel bigger.
Reflection
- What can you strip away of the superfluous to keep what is essential?
- How much of what is yours is it wise to give to someone who needs help?
- What help have you gone a long time without asking for, out of shame?