The Obama Effect

Originally published by the Gnosis Arts News Desk

by Eugenio Hurtado

Now that Barack is the new US president-elect, we all want to know what effect, if any, his presidency will have on racial and sexual equality in this nation.
Well, we asked the I Ching this very question, and the response was straightforward:

President Obama Will Bring Progress. But What Kind?

"Progress. The powerful prince
Is honored with horses in large numbers.
In a single day he is granted audience three times."

This positive omen confirms what our staff has thought all along. We realized back in the beginning of Obama's campaign that Obama was no mere politician; he was a statesman of high capability. We believe that Obama will be able to reforge crucial allies around the world.

It is equally refreshing to know, however, that Obama will not only improve relations with other countries, but right here within our own - if the I Ching be correct.

However, such progress will not be without some struggle. The I Ching also reports that Obama will bring about "progressing, but in sorrow." (Change Line 6). Clearly, with the shape that's our economy's in, Obama has his work cut out for him in terms of domestic policy.

Oaama's "Ancestress"
Additionally, the I Ching mentions Obama's ancestress in connection with the inquiry:

"Progressing, but in sorrow.
Perseverance brings good fortune.

Then one obtains happiness from one's ancestress."

Perhaps this pivotal "ancestress" is his mother? Perhaps the fact that Obama is of mixed racial as well as national heritage, will be just the key ingredient for his success in improving racial equality? It is certainly worth considering.

"It's The Little Foxes that Spoil the Vine"
This is a famous proverb we say in church. It actually comes from a reference in the Hebrew Bible, but it contains wisdom for today.

Listen to the judgment of change hexagram - #64 BEFORE COMPLETION:

"Before Completion. Success.

But if the little fox, after nearly completing the crossing,
Gets his tail in the water,
There is nothing that would further."

And the Image:

"The image of the condition before transition.
Thus the superior man is careful
In the differentiation of things,
So that each finds its place."

Yes, Obama certainly has the virtue and power to improve racial and sexual equality. But this progress will be difficult because there are so many smaller problems (little foxes) that will stand in his way. If President Obama can put all these problems in proper perspective and order, there are great portents for social change possible during his administration.