This week we drew the the fourteenth trump card, the “Temperance” card (the “Art” card in Crowlian parlance). This card points to balance and modesty, which also could be fairness or justice. It intimates that achieving long term goals requires a reserved and consistent mindset. The pursuit of this mode is most likely to be found on a metaphysical or spiritual path — as they are deliberate, slow, deep and strong.
        Our first hexagram, which we partner with our tarot to describe (or further detail) the current situation, is #15 “Modesty”. With the “Temperance” tarot this makes quite a pair; they are very similar in intention. This hexagram states that though we constantly face “immutable” (unchanging) forces we can choose whether to expose ourselves to destructive immutable energies or benevolent immutable energies. This is where modesty comes into play. Behaviors that are impudent and conceited expose one to harmful forces — as they are immodest modes, without quiet self reflection and patience.
        Our second hexagram, the one that suggests how best to meet the challenges (or the changes) is #53 “Gradual Progress”. We would be remiss if we did not mention that this week’s hexagrams and tarot seem uncannily pertinent to the current climate (but ultimately the conclusions here, should be your own). The 53rd hexagram speaks of “precipitate” (hasty) development vs “tranquil” development. It posits that sturdiness comes through patient progress, not chaotic and careless conduct.
        There is a consistent and similar recommendation in each of the three divinations that is perhaps best summed up in a single word: perseverance. It seems very plain. To meet the current and forthcoming circumstances/challenges, it seems one should pursue a constant object of temperate, modest, and gradual progress.