9. Small Taming (Hsiao Ch'u)

Gentle wind drives away clouds. Suggests gradual progress through gentle persistence rather than force.

Line 1: Return to the way. How could there be blame in this? Good fortune.
Line 2: He allows himself to be drawn into returning. Good fortune.
Line 3: The spokes burst out of the wagon wheels. Man and wife roll their eyes.
Line 4: If you are sincere, blood vanishes and fear gives way. No blame.
Line 5: If you are sincere and loyally attached, you are rich in your neighbor.
Line 6: The rain comes, there is rest. This is due to the lasting effect of character. The superior person is content and composed. When the rain comes, there is rest. This is due to the lasting effect of character.