I Ching - O Livro das Mutações - cont

60 Regulation lake below, water above

Regulation is successful, but painful regulation is not to be held to.

Water is dispersed by wind, regulated by a lake. When it is regulated, it does not overflow and does not dry up, so it can always provide moisture; ... If dispersal is excessive, it results in exhaustion, so it is taken up with regulation; but too much regulation results in suffering, so it is not to be held to permanently.

Painful regulation is not to be held to, because that would lead to an impasse. Work through danger joyfully, take charge of the situation with discipline, get through with balance and rectitude. As heaven and earth are regulated, the four seasons take place. When laws are established with regulation, they do not damage property or injure people.

When one attains balance, one does not suffer pain. When one suffers pain, one comes to an impasse, and when one is at an impasse, one cannot deal with ordinary life. If one does not suffer pain, one is joyful, and so can also work through danger. ... Nature has four seasons, kings have laws; both of these are what is referred to as getting through by balance and rectitude.

Customary social relations are conducted based on virtues...

In terms of timing, this means first indulging in feelings and doing what you please, without knowing how to regulate yourself; afterward troubles come and you lament in vain.

Here positive strength is balanced and correct, in the position of honor. This is one who manages the situation with discipline. There is neither excess nor lack, so there is contentment and a good outlook.

Idem