56

Stranger in a Strange Land

‘If a man be gracious and courteous to strangers, it shews he is a citizen of the world.’

Francis Bacon

The current situation is temporary. Do not let yourself get too deeply involved. Be prepared for change. Avoid making a commitment to any particular person or situation. Consider this as a time when you can gather information, expand your horizons and make discoveries about yourself and others. Keep your wits about you. Be practical and willing to adapt to whatever changes may occur. When meeting new people, be respectful but also cautious at first and a little reserved. Associate only with those whose motives you feel you can trust. Do not compromise your self-respect in an effort to win acceptance. If you are sincere and courteous, the right people will assist you. Be sure to express your gratitude to anyone who gives you a helping hand. Where possible, be helpful in return.

An opportunity for personal growth

You are wandering in unfamiliar territory without a map. Your journey is about exploring new ideas and possibilities, perhaps even a new identity. You will be quite safe as long as you observe certain ground rules. Whatever the situation, treat it as a learning experience. Most importantly, be self-reliant. Because circumstances could change at any time, you cannot depend too much on others. This means that your only true security lies within. You are therefore thrown back on your own resources. This gives you an opportunity to develop your ability to cope with the unfamiliar. If you can be at ease with yourself regardless of circumstances, you will respond to whatever happens in the most appropriate way.

Further aspects of the situation

SIX AT THE BEGINNING

Do not try to win approval by demeaning yourself. You will succeed only in inviting contempt and ridicule. Keep your dignity and people will respect you. Avoid frittering away your energy or resources on trivial matters.

SIX IN THE SECOND PLACE

If you are modest and reserved, people will want to help you. They will be attracted by your quiet confidence and self-possession.

NINE IN THE THIRD PLACE

Beware of interfering in what is not your business. Guard against being quick-tempered or arrogant. If others find your behaviour offensive, you could lose their support and destroy what you have achieved so far.

NINE IN THE FOURTH PLACE

Although you have accomplished a certain amount, you have not arrived at your goal. You would like to hold on to what you have achieved so far and make your position secure. Yet if you are to make further progress, the situation will have to change. The answer is to move slowly and cautiously.

SIX IN THE FIFTH PLACE

Your task is completed. No further difficulties stand in your way. Although your journey has involved some hardship you have used your abilities to best advantage. People have finally recognized your worth. Now you can successfully establish yourself in the new situation.

NINE AT THE TOP

If you are careless you risk losing something essential to your security. Value what you have by taking care of it properly. Do not be selfish. Show consideration for others and be willing to adapt.