Old friend

[persephone]

Lately I've been thinking about an old friend. He and I fell out years ago. We got involved for a brief time which totally ruined the friendship. Emotions flamed up high and we never spoke again. I have been thinking about maybe contacting him and see if we can be friends again.
I asked if he would be open to having contact with me:
26.1.4.5.>44
This doesn't sound very encouraging. Line 1 seems to say: don't go there. Line 4 I read as: if we can keep our short tempers and emotions under control, this could be joyous. Line 5...I haven't a clue really.
Does 44 mean that maybe he finds me attractive but being friends could be either a joyful or a dangerous thing?
Am I about right or am I missing something? The way I see it now is: it could be fun being friends again but carefully.

 

[foxx777]

I think you have the right take. I have often been dismayed when getting 26.1, as I am told, "Stop, this situation is dangerous" - but this is more of a warning to keep certain aspects in check, as you have taken it. It is more saying "Be aware!" than "forget it", I think...

lines 4 and 5 both speak of keeping something potentially dangerous from developing its power: Line 5 is a bit more cryptic, and sometimes refers to a sacrificial offering of "a gelded pig's tusks" : But there is still the idea of castration, neutering, in light of your friendship and past relationship.

Hexagram 44 : With its warning of, "The maiden is bold: No use to marry such a maiden"--again may be only a warning to de-emphasize the past sexual or romantic aspects. Or it could point to his reception: "Uh oh, am I up to taking this on again?". But you have to ask that as well.

Still, nothing ventured, nothing gained. As I get older, I find I am casting caution to the winds.... I also cast many readings sometimes, with the first being a warning, and the ensuing getting more positive... :bows:

 

[persephone]

I agree, nothing lost nothing gained!
I think maybe line 5 is referring to him being in a relationship perhaps?

 

[foxx777]

I agree, nothing lost nothing gained!
I think maybe line 5 is referring to him being in a relationship perhaps?

Well, that is a possibility: But I do not see how you could be at fault for simply wanting to resume the friendship. And you cannot be certain, until you have communicated with him...

So long as you are aware of what may be negative aspects - and you seem very much aware - I would still give it a try. If it works, you will be glad you have done so. If not, you can say to yourself, "Well, it wasn't for lack of trying!"