THE NATAL HEXAGRAM READINGS

      An Explanation

      This section contains the natal hexagram readings for specific people. If you have followed the previous instructions, you now have the hexagram for a person about whom you are seeking information—or your own. First, a few words on what these readings contain.

      1. The first item is the title of the hexagram—for example, Hexagram #1 is The Creative. These are based on the Wilhelm/Baynes translation of the I Ching.

      2. Following the hexagram title is the title of the personality—for example, #1 is The Original One. This shows the primary personality this hexagram represents and gives us a general “type.”

      3. The third item is a list of “Traits” that this hexagram embodies, both positive and negative. This is to give a general zen, or quick feel, for the hexagram type.

      4. Next is a summarized “Life Lessons.” This is a quick synopsis on the key things these people need to work on to grow and become more complete individuals, as indicated by the hexagram.

      5. Next are the “Positive Tendencies.” As already mentioned, these are only possible tendencies, not literal truth. Keep in mind that a tendency not acted upon or developed never reveals itself. These are natural gifts one is born with; whether one uses them is up to the individual.

      6. “Positive Tendencies” are followed by the “Negative Tendencies.” The same ideas apply as with the positive tendencies. Some may never surface, others may only be minor problems. These tendencies are not negative in the sense of being bad; in fact, they are important parts of oneself in that they reveal ways to grow and become a stronger, better, more balanced person.

      7. Last is “Compatibility”—specific natal hexagrams that represent people who may naturally attract or repel initially. Those who are naturally attractive in a positive way may or may not end up becoming important, but they will have better immediate chemistry. People who naturally evoke an immediate negative reaction may, in fact, be great teachers and helpers because they offer the chance for the greatest growth. They may also end up becoming good friends, but it will be more of a challenge getting close to them.

      The order that the hexagrams are listed in follows the traditional order as set forth in the Wilhelm/Baynes translation of the I Ching.

      “Existence and nonexistence produce each other

       Difficult and easy complete each other

       Long and short contrast each other

       High and low attract each other

       Pitch and tone harmonize each other

       Future and past follow each other....”

      —Tao Teh Ching, The Tao of Power, R. L. Wing translation

      HEXAGRAM 1