Heaven ascends and water flows down. This difference in direction creates a gulf across which it can be difficult to communicate. Difficulty in communication often leads to conflict. In times like this we must be careful with how we manage the relationships with ourselves and others.

The I Ching’s advice here is formulaic, but not without reason. This week is one where there is risk of conflict, and at times like these it can serve us well to stick to the formula. Only through compassion can we seek to avoid unfortunate outcomes. Save any risky moves for another week.

1st: T,H,H > Stable Yin
2nd: T,T,H > Stable Yang
3rd: H,T,H > Stable Yin
4th: H,H,H > Changing Yang
5th: T,H,T > Stable Yang
6th: H,H,H > Changing Yang

The hexagram for this week is Sung, Conflict.

• Above: Ch’ien, Heaven

• Below: K’an, Water

Two lines in change give us hexagram 29 as an echo. This doubled hexagram, which represents water, is what warns us of potential danger near the end of the week.

Blessings to you all.