44 – The Gate – Mistress – The Winds of Heaven

They are drawn to each other upon first sighting as he takes her hand and knows that it is better not to ask her name. The gate is a time of contact or momentary union. Enjoy it, gain from the experience, using it as a catalyst to draw strength from the source. However, we should not try to make anything lasting, for this path will lead straight into the spiders web.

1^st – Struggling Towards the Gate – So many troubles upon the road, but he continues to push forward even if this means dragging along his companions. Rejoice, for the gate will soon be reached, but not before another suffers misfortune upon the same road.

2^nd – Barring the Gate – He has much to give, but refuses to entertain guests. Such selfishness may come back to bite him in the back.

3^rd – Approaching the Gate – His clothes are now rags and he walks with a limp. Rejoice, for the one-eyed monk has finally reached the jade gate. There may be trouble, but if we are steadfast, then we shall reach our goal.

4^th – Hiding from the Gate – His power is spent and he has nothing left to give. He isolates himself. This disconnection from people may not be a good thing as there is one who can assist us.

5^th – Inside the Gate – From the outside, it was nothing spectacular, but as he enters the gate closes behind him and quite a magnificent sight is seen. There is a hidden beauty at work that is subtle in assistance due to shyness.

6^th – Exhaustion at the Gate – He has done all that he can do and fingers helplessly at the gate. We have done our best, it is not our fault that we failed.

All Six – A Crack in the Gate – It does not open completely, but just a hair. He should accept what is given with grace, while at the same time, subtly positioning himself to gain further entry.