The seasons have changed and new beginnings await us. As often happens when we move from one cycle to another, this is a good time to pay attention to our conduct. The I Ching tells us that this week is a situation where “that which is strongest and that which is weakest are close together”. This takes place both within ourselves and also in the world around us.

Just as fire and water move in opposite directions, we as individuals and groups can find ourselves being pulled apart. This is not necessarily a bad thing - viewed from a holistic perspective these differences in direction are what give us polarity, an essential part of nature.

There are times of abundance and times of scarcity. Neither are bad in themselves if we approach the situation with open mind and preparation. This week is about getting back to the basics, and living within the means we have.

The I Ching gives us a joyful reading for this week. Enjoy the bliss of whatever it is you are doing, and take inspiration from things as it comes. The weekend will bring good conditions for organising groups of people toward a common goal if you so wish.

Sometimes strong beginnings can turn out to be false starts. We are surprised by a series of events, or filled with an unusual energy as we begin a task. This is often propitious, but not always... a few days pass and what was a promising beginning turns into a dead end. We are stuck.

In order to truly get to know another we must understand them, and allow them to feel like they understand us. Success this week will be built on the foundation of mutual understanding, for shared benefit. Inner truth comes from a heart free of prejudices, and only when we relate to others in this way (ie without excess judgement) can we work with them effectively.

This week focuses on the theme of nourishment, specifically discernment as it relates to nourishing the body and spirit. It invites us to ask ourselves the question: “am I feeding the good parts of myself, or the bad?”.

There are times when it is best to keep a low profile. This can be so for a number of reasons, but is particularly important when unwanted attention can lead to misfortune or danger. The I Ching calls this hexagram the Darkening of the Light, and it cautions the wise person to hide their own inner light for the time being.

Our work is done for the time being, and now attention turns to what will follow as a result. If we wish to get an indication of what will come back, we must look at the effects of our action on the world around us. If those effects are good, then blessings are certain.