I Ching

A seasoned traveler knows that a special kind of decorum is called for when one ventures far from home.  He or she must develop a yielding nature outwardly, so that the “local contact”, or host, can open doors and prevent unseemly errors.  But inwardly, the wanderer knows that it is sometimes impossible to discern the true intentions of strangers – are they hostile, or friendly, or merely opportunistic?

Any journey is ruled by the twin houses of mystery and discovery.  Each new day is launched on a fresh landscape, one which reaches out to grab our full attention.  Though travel is often a great teacher – and a great equalizer – there is a definite art to living with your home on the road.  Increased caution and discernment become the keys not only to success, but to survival.

If you are entering a new environment of any sort – attempt to be sincere, flexible, and undemanding, rather than obstinate.  You must jettison attitudes and habits which could encumber you, or make you overly conspicuous.  The onset of a great journey is not a favorable time to enter into binding agreements, or to start new enterprises.

1. When you are in a vulnerable position (as is any wanderer), do not let yourself become too involved with trivial matters which are not your concern.  Maintain your sense of purpose, and don’t allow yourself to be overly distracted.  If forced into tempting circumstances, maintain your dignity and reserve, otherwise misfortune will occur.  A traveler preoccupied with petty things invites misfortune.  As ever, perseverance furthers.
2. One of the greatest assets of any traveler is a natural affection for people – all people, even those very different from oneself.  This attitude should be cultivated whenever you find yourself in a new environment; great benefit will come from it.  Also, the more ambitious a journey, the more beneficial it is to share it with a loyal companion.
3. When a traveler in a strange land has no one to trust, the situation can quickly become dangerous.  If you meddle in affairs and controversies that do not concern you, you are taking a great risk.  If you treat cavalierly those who are willing to help you, you lose their support.  Those who become arrogant in the company of pygmies are soon cut off at the knees.  No place is safe for the ill-behaved.
4. Here is the predicament of the traveler who takes up temporary residence in a strange place: Even though he has managed to acquire a safe haven, he must remain alert, because he is not yet in full harmony with his surroundings.  In his heart, he is still unsettled, for he has not yet found a permanent home.
5. A skillful traveler shows good manners, and thus wins acceptance.  A time of success, promotion and reward is indicated.  Those who learn to thrive in new lands will prosper anywhere.  Supreme good fortune.
6. A changing line in the 6th place suggests a bird whose nest has burned up.  The worst mistake a traveler can make is to forget that he is an outsider.  This induces carelessness, and a careless traveler is easily lost.  Carelessness on the road – or in any new situation – inevitably brings misfortune.