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the influence on others must proceed from one's own person.
In order to be capable of producing such an influence,
one's words must have power,
and this they can have only if they are based on something real,
just as flame depends on its fuel
Words have influence only when they are pertinent and
clearly related to definite circumstances.

General discourses and admonitions have no effect whatsoever.
Furthermore, the words must be supported by
one's entire conduct,

just as the wind is made effective by an impression on
others that they can adapt and conform to it.

If words and conduct are not in accord and consistent, they will have no effect.

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(from the wilhelm version, 37. Chia Jjn / The Family [The Clan])

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'When water in a kettle hangs over fire, the two elements stand in relation
and thus generate energy (cf. the production of steam). But the resulting
tension demands caution. If the water boils over, the fire is extinguished an
its energy is lost. If the heat is too great, the water evaporates into the air.

These elements here brought in to relation and thus generating energy are by
nature hostile to each other. Only the most extreme caution can prevent
damage.

In life too there are junctures when all forces are in balance and
work in harmony, so that everything seems to be in the best of order.

In such times.. [it is important to] recognize the moments that bode danger
and know how to banish it by means of timely precautions.'

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63. Chi Chi / After Completion
(adopted form the wilhelm version of the iching)