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COMING TO MEET
Darkness reappears unexpectedly.
Caution and reticence are in order.
It is a dangerous hour. Through an eruption of our inferior nature darkness has interrupted the flow of light. The inferior can be quite seductive, and if we are not resolute in resisting it, the moment can be lost to misfortune.
In one’s self, this is a time to examine motives; those which are of questionable honor should be uprooted and discarded. Be wary of situations that engage your ego and tempt you into anger, self-righteousness, or desire. Actively employ your higher nature to test the correctness of tempting ideas and circumstances; that which seems to be suspicious almost certainly is.
In your conduct with others, practice modesty, independence, and patience with great discipline. Avoid anger or arrogance at all costs; withdraw whenever you cannot meet another in a balanced and independent way. Neither encourage another to forego his balance nor indulge him if he does so. Again, withdraw into stillness if the circumstances indicate the presence of inferior influences. Reticence and self-scrutiny are the order of the day.
FIRST LINE
The time to control the inferior is in the beginning. Whatever negative emotion seeks expression now should be reined in before it builds momentum. Use your will to return to balance.
SECOND LINE
A dark impulse clings. Do not resist it with violence. Simply decline to express it and wait patiently, concentrating on what is correct, until it passes.
THIRD LINE
The temptation is to argue one’s case. This will only serve to beckon misfortune. Observe the urge but do not indulge it.
FOURTH LINE
Others may give expression to inferior qualities. There is no merit in judging, condemning, or correcting them. Tolerance and a gentle hand are advised, no matter how offensive the difficulty.
FIFTH LINE
Do not use your own poise and principles to berate another. Trust that whatever is true and good in you will transform others’ inferior elements without forceful effort on your part. Gentleness brings success.
SIXTH LINE
Constant challenges from inferior qualities, either your own or someone else’s, may necessitate a withdrawal. Simply remain mindful of your connection to the Sage and tolerate accusations or unpleasantness with equanimity and restraint.
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