54: Careful Affection

Affection is an important part of intimate relationships, but it must be handled carefully to be both satisfying and supportive of each person’s self-respect. For instance, a married person’s secret lover would have the conflicted feelings of affection coupled with insecurity. Relationships that are based on personal attraction—especially those that are unconventional—require special attention and a cautious measure of tactful reserve.

To overcome challenges and achieve longevity in a relationship, you need to remain mindful of extreme feelings of attraction as well as the transitory nature of most relationships. It is an irony of life that the happiest people are those who have what they want and who want what they have.

It is easy to make disastrous mistakes when you venture outside the bounds of propriety. If you assert yourself too much or try to make yourself indispensable, you will invite misfortune. If you are in doubt as to whether you should follow your heart or your head, allow some time to pass; and perhaps the answer will become clear. Boldly asserting yourself right now could bring misfortune, so do not attempt to be overly creative or to attract much favorable attention. At the same time, allowing yourself to drift aimlessly can be a mistake. Find balance in a middle way.

Changing Line Interpretations

Line 1 (bottom line)

This can be a time of accomplishment, even if you find yourself with less status than you desired or with more limited resources than you wish you had. If you accept your position and destiny, you may discover new secrets close to home and even come to feel happy in these circumstances. Being in the proximity of power is something to be appreciated in itself. This might be a time to undertake something, because good fortune is riding with you.

Line 2

A time of no advance is indicated by this line, but everything should turn out all right in the end. No matter how lonely it might feel, for now just stay true to your own path. Be patient and kind with yourself. When the shine of your own light is true, others will naturally be attracted to it.

Line 3

Strong desire for forbidden or unobtainable fruits does not lower the branches of the fruit-bearing tree. Still, there is not much blame in this.

Line 4

Purity of intent supports the manifestation of your dreams. Avoid overt manipulation of others when seeking their affection or support. Conscientiousness is rewarded with the fulfillment of your visions.

Line 5

When a highly qualified person accepts a humble position with graciousness, good fortune follows for everyone. Just as a wise person is more interested in character than money or looks, you may find value in what first appears less flashy, or “ordinary.” Fulfillment and satisfaction are indicated here.

Line 6 (top line)

Within an intimate relationship, irreverence and cynicism will kill the magic that lies at the heart of a bond. Whether you’re in a relationship now or you’re contemplating it in the future, a union of the heart only works when both parties are as concerned about their mate’s happiness as they are about their own.