August 12th, 1973

[continued]

In some situations indeed a man must hide his light, in order to make his will prevail in spite of difficulties in his immediate environment. Perseverance must dwell in inmost consciousness and should not be discernible from without. Only then is a man able to maintain his will in the face of difficulties. 

The Image

The light has sunk into the earth:

The image of darkening of the light.

Thus does the superior man live with the great masses

He veils his light, yet still shines.

In a time of darkness, it is essential to be cautious and reserved. One should not needlessly awaken overwhelming enmity by inconsiderate behavior.

One should not needlessly awaken overwhelming enmity by inconsiderate behavior.

In such times one ought not to fall in with the practices of others; neither should one drag them censoriously into the light. In social intercourse, one should not try to be all-knowing.

One should let many things pass, without being duped.

But in abolishing abuses one must not be too hasty. This would turn out badly because the abuses have been in existence so long.