Initial Caution

Treading crosswise. Honor the Bright Omen! This is not a mistake. Be very careful with the first steps. Polish and clarify your motives. If you respond the same way again and again you will be caught in the tomb of melancholy. If you make an impulsive move you face disaster. Search outside the norms. Do not be afraid to act alone. You are connected with a creative force.

初九, 履錯然, 敬之, 无咎.

The footprints run crisscross. If one is seriously intent, no blame. ##### Comments It is early morning and work begins. The mind has been closed to the outside world in sleep; now its connections with the world begin again. The traces of one's impressions run crisscross. Activity and haste prevail. It is important then to preserve inner composure and not to allow oneself to be swept along by the bustle of life. If one is serious and composed, he can acquire the clarity of mind needed for coming to terms with the innumerable impressions that pour in. It is precisely at the beginning that serious concentration is important, because the beginning holds the seed of all that is to follow.