9 – The Kettle – Swelling – Wind across the Heavens

The kettle sits on the stove, but the water will not boil. Clouds come from the west, but the land remains like a desert; we must drink the tea lukewarm. We will find success in accomplishing smaller and lesser things; as for serious matter, it is advised to wait until another day to move forward.

1^st – Purchasing the Kettle – Scouring the pawnshops, he finds that which he seeks. She sits alone on a dusty shelf and shines with a radiance only seen to his eye. Their only be praise for those who stand behind that which they love.

2^nd – Refurbishing the Kettle – He returns to the place of his birth to ask assistance for the proper method of polishing the silver. We may wish to stop and look over our shoulder, and even consider turning back as their may be some valuable information we have missed.

3^rd – The Broken Kettle – The handle separates from the body, it clanks to the floor; husband and wife place the blame upon each other and glare cross-eyed. Why must it be like this?

4^th – Filling the Kettle – Following instructions carefully, he fills the kettle with the correct mixture. Our elders stand in confidence behind us. By following tried and true methods, we will avoid spilling the water.

5^th – Placing the Kettle – We lower it confidently onto the flame. We invite our neighbors over for tea so as to win their hearts. One becomes wealthy through generosity.

6^th – The Kettle Sings – The clouds burst forth and the nourishing rains fall. People should gather close and share a warm cup of tea. Women are advised to refrain from persistence while men are advised to wait until the full moon to take action.

All Six – The Kettle Explodes – Unbound passion rules for but a moment. Experience it, grow from it and then let it go.