Nothing good in life comes from trying to fit in with the “cool kids”.

41. Sun — 38. K’uei

The 41st hexagram is coincidently the symbol for tax season! LOL. According to the I-Ching, a loss is a loss is a loss. The oracle speaks of the unavoidable losses in life that are necessary to institute a balance of sorts. The Wilhelmina-Baynes edition actually describes the taxing of the working class in order to fund the directives of the ruling class. But also asserts microcosmically, that our faults and shadow psychology periodically have to move into a state of deficit in order for the higher aspects of the soul to be enriched. Unfortunately for you anarchists out there (to a degree myself included), hierarchy exists in all aspects of nature. But as we attempt to use our best judgement with regards to how hierarchy is managed politically, we are able to creatively manage our use of hierarchy within the limits of our character and thus destiny.

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In this scenario, the I-Ching is pointing out those instances when we must take note of toxic relationships that result in unhealthy and non-productive behaviours. Regardless of what your favourite socio-political ideology is, your worth is based on your usefulness. Western culture is a ruthless proponent of the idea that we must be “cool”. That we (mostly our youth) must keep up with trends of behaviour, fashion and slang words in order to be accepted. The problem with this is that it’s COMPLETELY F*$@^ING USELESS. Aside from creating an ideal lifestyle that can be marketed into products to be sold, being “cool” has no real foundational use for society and ultimately yourself.

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So in order to be truly useful to the right people and to associate yourself with those that can help to champion your own personal goals, you must decrease the amount of time spent with useless habits and people. This is something you must take stock and inventory of periodically. To be able to free yourself from those people and things that hold you back from making the best use of your service and talents to others. In doing so, you will create rifts and disappointments. But in the end it will be worth for all parties involved.

Stay blessed always,

Lee