Working on What Has Been Spoiled

Decay and Correction

As the Sun now moves into Gate 18, an energy that carries both challenge and opportunity. Known as the Gate of Correction, its theme is simple yet profound: working on what has been spoiled. (one possible meaning of this: Autumn, harvesting what was grown, removing the dead, and saving the fresh seeds for future.)

This energy isn’t about perfection. It’s about seeing what doesn’t work (dead) and feeling called to improve it. Gate 18 can shine a spotlight on flaws, weaknesses, and mistakes — in ourselves, in others, and in the systems we live within. Sometimes this shows up as criticism or judgment, and at times it can feel heavy or uncomfortable. But beneath it lies a higher purpose: to restore balance, to heal what’s been damaged, and to improve what can be made better.

When we embody this energy correctly and consciously, correction becomes an act of love — not punishment. It’s the parent teaching the child, the leader guiding a team, the healer bringing something back into alignment. It’s about lifting ourselves and others up by tending to what’s been neglected or broken.

But when this energy is used unconsciously or incorrectly, it can turn sour. Constant fault-finding, nitpicking, or harsh self-criticism can create more damage than healing. The shadow of Gate 18 is getting stuck in judgment instead of channeling that insight into constructive change.

This week, notice:

• Where do you feel called to correct or improve something in your life?

• Are you judging yourself or others too harshly instead of guiding?

• What “decay” in your habits, relationships, or work could use some loving attention?

The gift of Gate 18 is discernment — the ability to see what isn’t working and gently guide it toward renewal. And the highest expression is perfection through love: not because things become flawless, but because we learn to accept the process of correction as a natural part of growth.

This week, don’t fear what feels spoiled.

See it as an invitation.

Correction is not about blame — it’s about love in action.