happy valentine's day, Beloved

this morning, on a whim, caught between an unexpected two-hour delay and the needs of sick puppies, i happened to consult the i-ching. what is the wisest course of action, i asked, if i wish to nurture and enhance my relationship with Beloved?

this is the answer i received...it spoke to me so eloquently, i thought i would share it here:

Your Present Hexagram

Two - Great receptivity attracts exceptional results, especially in relationships. The natural responsiveness of pure Yin energy brings about success through support and perseverance, rather than through bold action. Thus, the wise person demonstrates strength like a powerful but gentle mare. This hexagram, consisting of all yin lines, represents a power of the feminine principle no longer honored in our modern world, but such receptivity is most auspicious.

The receptive force is sensual as well as powerful, and it can be missed by too much talk and planning. When spring comes, does the grass "plan" to grow? This is a time to concentrate on realities rather than potentials -- with how to respond to a relationship rather than how to direct it. The mature mare lets herself be guided by a higher power, and is skilled at graceful acceptance. In a strong spiritual way, her quiet contribution is most effective, and brings success.

Do not be too assertive at this time, for if you try to direct things, you are liable to become confused or alienated. Take your time. Draw strength from carefulness and you will be doubly fortunate. Focus more on feeling than on action. Be broad and deep in your attitudes so that you can accept everything that comes your way with grace and equanimity. Be receptive and spacious like the ocean; let the river of changing developments flow to you. Allow a partner to take the lead for now. Strive for a pure natural responsiveness that is based on inner strength rather than outer show.

Your Changing Lines

The Changing Lines are the part of an I-Ching reading that give the most powerful advice about a situation or issue, because they represent the factors that are causing things to change right now.

You have two Changing Lines. Either one or the other or some combination of both of them will be relevant.

The first changing line is line 2
Let movement and stillness meet. When action springs naturally from inner calm, and proceeds to harmonize with external creative forces, all is well. Good results are achieved without artifice, complex intentions or great effort.

The second changing line is line 3
Leave the pursuit of fame and praise to others. Focus on accepting yourself. Freedom from vanity can be a powerful force, and very attractive. Do not display your virtue for all to see, but nurture it within yourself. Attempt to be of service and your life will improve by itself. Allow fruit to ripen slowly. Quiet effort is called for now.

Your Future Hexagram

The forces of growth in springtime demonstrate this hexagram's energy, as new plant life pushes upward through the earth's crust, and the sap is rising. The emphasis is on upward motion, from obscurity to influence, with growth fostered by adaptability and the absence of opposition. Constant, flexible growth is the key attribute of a plant pushing upwards. This reading suggests a period of new richness in your relationships.

The wise person, in harmony with fate, is sensitive but determined. Make a sincere effort to apply resolute efforts. Break through inertia, and good fortune will follow. By remaining flexible and tolerant, you will be able to retain the kind of conscious innocence that fuels growth and advancement. Will power and self-control are necessary to manage developments, but the life force is behind everything.

and furthermore, the war must end. blessed be.