Pathfinder
Hexagram 57 Subtlety
The model of the moment: Attitudes enjoy far more impact on events than many of us realize. Attitudes color our moods and often as not dictate our facial expressions towards those around us. Thus our inner perspectives are often more obvious to others than we believe. Our attitudes also guide our actions and shape our goals. As our views externalize themselves in these ways, they become apparent to others, influencing their own outlook on life. Leaders in society are especially scrutinized for such clues to their inner nature and preferences. Followers often define their own value systems according to such observations of their leadership. Children take cues for their own behavior from that of their parents and peers. Efforts on our part to affect the signals we exhibit to others by conscious deception quickly fall by the wayside in the daily grind of living. No matter what we do, our true attitudes will tend to show themselves in most of our words and actions, for all to see. If we wish to change the signals we send, we must first modify our inner views. The course usually recommended for such times: Leaders must see beyond what is, to what should be. This view makes them aware of what is lacking, and thereby what is needed to achieve a particular objective. Followers perceive their leader's attitude, the absence of those same things, and finally bring forth what is needed to fill the void by their efforts. Do not underestimate the resourcefulness of those around you. Supply them with the barest hints of a dream worth realizing, and they will do the rest; conscientiously and tirelessly turning vague fantasies into richly detailed realities. Lasting effect upon the world comes from such continuous, subtle design and movements. Computer designers speak of 'open architecture' systems. Subtle 'hints' and virtuous attitudes are 'open architecture' deeds which encourage others to build upon them, making their own unique contributions to the human experience. Thus can an original vision expand and grow beyond what its creator could achieve alone. In cases of crisis where prolonged conflict may mean disaster for all, seeking intelligence about an enemy is obviously an exercise in subtlety, as once he is alerted to the effort many windows of opportunity will slam shut. But the greatest subtlety in such times comes about from the generation and maintenance of illusion. Illusion and deception can be among the most powerful tools at your disposal in cases of all-out conflict. If you can, through artifice, transpose areas of strength and weakness in the eyes of the enemy, and surprise daily with your movements so as to seem unpredictable, you can leave your foe bewildered and vulnerable. Your ability to manipulate their perceptions will lead them to ever growing uncertainty, and gross error, which can clear the way for your successful attack. Illusion also can be an intangible but reliable form of defense; if your enemy knows not where you are, he can mount no significant attack against you. This same ignorance also forces your foe to spread thin his resources in order to protect all regions under his control; thus weakening him precisely at the spot you may secretly plan to strike with all your strength. Further use of subtlety can be used to trick your opponent into striking at a deserted place ( believing you have vital interests there ) simply for the purpose of observing from a distance his strategies, strengths, and weaknesses for future reference.
Fixed (no changing lines);
This is a plateau process or event; the given model will hold true for an extended period of time. Attempts to manipulate events away from the present course could prove frustrating and fruitless, until destiny is satisfied. Consider the following as well as the above: To affect the object of your desire, first learn more of its essential nature. This will educate you both as to what is possible in the current environment, and really desirable to achieve.
Changing Lines:
1
Decisiveness will be rewarded. Indecisiveness will make you ineffectual.
2
You seem at a loss to correct your inner problems. Be aware that help is available. Whether you prefer priest or psychiatrist, either can help you resolve this matter to your satisfaction.
3
Excessive deliberations and planning can absorb so much energy from an endeavor that none is left for action. This brings doubt and impotence.
4
Success will come from the resolution of conflicts raging within you. Guilt and anxiety will dissipate, freeing up a large amount of energy for you to devote to the tasks at hand.
5
It appears you must begin again, after an initially unsuccessful start. By being extra careful in your decisions, you can make this new beginning a successful one.
6
Your own fear and doubt can themselves obstruct your path as well as any material wall. Be decisive. And avoid overanalyzing the problem.
When all lines are changing;
In today's fast paced world, subtlety is becoming a lost art. And yet that growing rarity makes it an ever more potent tool in the hands of those who know how to wield it.