36 – The Mask – Draping – Fire hidden in the Earth
Entering into the Earth, the fire will be extinguished. The mask is like the eclipse. A quiet, perhaps injurious time where it is best to subdue our own power and yield to others. The mask is a time to conceal who we are and our true intentions by allowing others to take the limelight as we watch patiently from the shadows. To do otherwise would bring harm to ourselves.
1st – The Mask of Diligence – Donning the mask, he is forced to lower his wings and get back to the grotto. There is work to be done and should be attended with the utmost attention. This may mean working three days straight with little pause for food or sleep. The Wise Man gets done what must be done and ignores others foolish comments regarding the diligence of his work.
2nd – The Mask of Haste – Running too fast, he falls down and injures his left leg. Luckily there is a horse nearby, which he mounts to complete his emergency duties. Through he be hurt, the wise man searches and utilizes help to accomplish his immediate tasks. Finish it!
3rd – The Mask of Madness – Wounded while in the south, he pushed through to capture the enemy. At this point, the wise man will step back and view the situation from a balanced mind, so as to not become deluded by compulsions of madness that would serve to destroy that which has already been accomplished.
4th – The Mask of the Heart – Locking left eye to left eye, he sees deep into another and perceives a darkened heart. To persist will bring an infection of this darkness. Do what thou wilt and accept the consequences.
5th – Light through the Mask – Though he be injured, he continues to push forward. His light shines, even through the darkness. We will be rewarded if we remain steadfast with honorable intention.
6th – The Black Mask – Without even holes for eyes! The former ruler transgressed the divine law and was bound with an impenetrable mask. Nothing can be done except to weep or perhaps sing a sad song.
All Six – The Warriors Mask – Donning the warriors mask and iron gauntlets, he formulates strategies to crush his enemy. No quarter should be given. It is advised to keep the battle on the home turf, by setting a trap and drawing the enemy inward, causing him to overextend his resources.
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