4 – The Child Birth Pains – Mountain Stream

We should not seek out the child or attempt to give council to a deaf ear; rather it is time to cultivate our own power. Should they come to us asking for assistance, then we slowly begin to divulge our wisdom. If they are impatient and enjoy talking more than listening, then we shall turn a deaf ear to future inquires. A need for contemplation and proper direction is stressed. A disciplined education is required.

1^st – The Unresponsive Child – Sometimes for the sake of education, discipline is required. This can come in the form of tedious tasks or even a quick switch on the bottom! Though for discipline to be effective (and not a function of the dispensers pride,) the punishment must cause more sorrow to the giver than to the receiver. Such is the sacrifice when taking a parental role.

2^nd – The Harmonious Child – In this case, gentleness and compassion will achieve the desired results. Giving responsibility to the wife will bring forth good tidings. If a wife is not had, then finding one will bring good fortune. When the eldest and youngest sons balance their power, then they will be capable of taking over the household.

3^rd – The Motherless Child – The woman stares moon-eyed at gaudy displays of wealth. Such a woman is irresponsible and not fit to marry. For the sake of the child, better to turn our seeking in another direction.

4^th – The Dreamy Child – He who only looks to the sky, does not see the viper underfoot. Pay attention!

5^th – The Innocent Child – Laughter in the fields; youthful pranks in innocence can only bring smiles. Tonight, he will sleep well in her bosom.

6^th – Treading the Child – Discipline is sometimes required, but discipline without proper measure and timing can sometimes create enmity in the child and produce quite opposite of the desired effect. Better to try and prevent the wrong before it be committed than expend energy on calculating the punishment.

All Six – The Runaway Child – The balance in the home is forgotten. The child runs to the North and the East. Instead of chasing, we should focus on remedying our own faults. After we have resolved ourselves, the child will return of his own accord.