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While wandering through the eastern side of Koguryo, I stopped at Seme's barber shop to dye my hair for an upcoming festival. As he worked, he spoke of a problem that had been on his mind. "I have saved a great deal of coin over the years," he said. "I want to buy a larger shop and hire more assistants, but doing so would cost most of my savings. I do not know if the risk is worth it." I placed my golden pouch on the counter. It had been woven from the thinnest shavings of gold bars collected over many years. I offered to consult the I-Ching. I reached into my pouch and flipped the coins one by one. ----- -- -- -- -- -- -- ----- ----- The first hexagram was Sun, I smiled and spoke. "This hexagram speaks of sacrifice, self-control, and growth through discipline. It tells me that your years of hard work were not wasted. You built your shop carefully, treated your customers well, and saved your coin wisely. If you wish to grow, you may have to give up some of what you have now, but that sacrifice can lead to something greater." I then revealed the second hexagram. ----- ----- ----- -- -- ----- -- -- "The second hexagram is T'ung Jen, Fellowship with Others. This hexagram speaks of working together and building strong relationships. For many years you have run your shop mostly on your own to save money. The coins suggest that your future success may come from trusting others. If you hire good assistants and treat them well, they may help your business grow and bring in more customers." The barber nodded thoughtfully. "So the answer is not to hold tighter to my coin, but to place my trust in others?" I smiled and gathered my golden pouch. "That is what the coins suggest." He seemed much more at ease as I left than when I had arrived. | |