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The 64 Hexagrams
of the I Ching
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62: Attention to Detail
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64: Nearing Completion
63: After Completion
It is a fine irony that after the completion of a project or grand enterprise, there is still much to do. Completion is merely a pause in the cycle of creation and decay—a momentary still point for the swinging pendulum of life. Though completion implies a period of restful pause—one that has been well earned—it is not an actual ending; it is a harmonious flat spot in the constancy of change and movement, like the still point between the inhalation and exhalation of one’s breath.
One image of the After Completion Hexagram is that of a kettle of water boiling over a fire. When the forces are balanced, the water boils properly; when the pot is too full and boils over, it puts out the fire. On the other hand, if the fire is too hot for too long, it can evaporate all the water. In maintaining the equilibrium that follows the completion of an arduous task, forces at work in the situation must be monitored carefully to ensure that a proper balance is maintained. This is a time for fine tuning—a time for refinements and embellishments of what has been accomplished.
Even as we enjoy a rewarding situation, the laws of the natural world dictate that influence and success must eventually decline. Don’t let your current good fortune give rise to adopting an attitude that is too careless or relaxed. Whatever is successful or already established needs to be carefully maintained, without trying to expand it right now. What is incomplete, on the other hand, should be brought to fruition without delay. Then take satisfaction upon completion and enjoy a sense of fulfillment, but do not linger too long on endings.
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