tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49484410467585108412024-03-18T08:44:36.936-04:00 By the Sycamore Treethesycamoretreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15182019323050600440noreply@blogger.comBlogger4415125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4948441046758510841.post-63037171382394231902024-03-18T08:37:00.001-04:002024-03-18T08:44:02.354-04:00Love is Like a Brick<p>From the Songs for the Journey Home, Second Wave Song (Two of Cups); from the Magic Neko Cards, the Eight of Diamonds:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdBC6ocdG22sDn6rgqhaDwqVMtMaE2wunEpPe85b5pirTfmDfOaOwXBJ1MQ3RTSQvMWlW-KLXbP5-68x6KcuBJrvJwqg30CW5o04Pb9a7c93rR-WqCNe0r32mld8dZcDL1zBOozHFvFV5rSpN9twbL_9xuYU3lHKjXrmlodxx1hnsRaiNO-5K-nWlKsKw/s1244/second%20wave%20song.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1231" data-original-width="1244" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdBC6ocdG22sDn6rgqhaDwqVMtMaE2wunEpPe85b5pirTfmDfOaOwXBJ1MQ3RTSQvMWlW-KLXbP5-68x6KcuBJrvJwqg30CW5o04Pb9a7c93rR-WqCNe0r32mld8dZcDL1zBOozHFvFV5rSpN9twbL_9xuYU3lHKjXrmlodxx1hnsRaiNO-5K-nWlKsKw/s320/second%20wave%20song.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6ULBHPGIDQnevoiWo6sF5JFYSDVupSsm6p6o2k4XxO-ruY7JLR8w1F55n1dFSJvwP_Zo9mSOJmlzmHrtyuxWvqyR0_-F4OYGpcN1P4dI3uEWvU_VZjcqskD0yoQlaWS6Pxr5w41RmB9K066dNZckpi-DSKhpstBBjMOoVXJBYhX0G_dTXJnEWX0436Dc/s1012/eight%20of%20diamonds.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1012" data-original-width="717" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6ULBHPGIDQnevoiWo6sF5JFYSDVupSsm6p6o2k4XxO-ruY7JLR8w1F55n1dFSJvwP_Zo9mSOJmlzmHrtyuxWvqyR0_-F4OYGpcN1P4dI3uEWvU_VZjcqskD0yoQlaWS6Pxr5w41RmB9K066dNZckpi-DSKhpstBBjMOoVXJBYhX0G_dTXJnEWX0436Dc/w142-h200/eight%20of%20diamonds.jpg" width="142" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div><i>Love is like a brick. You can build a house, or you can sink a dead body.</i></div><div>~Lady Gaga</div></div><p>This gushing fountain is topped by two cherubs. In the early versions of Greek mythology, Eros was portrayed as a cosmic force that brought people together which often led to tragedy. Gradually, he was brought under the control of Aphrodite, who allowed him to create relationships but without his chaotic impulses. By the time the Romans acquired the story, Eros had become Cupid, a cherubic little boy who followed his mother’s wishes to make people fall in love. I'm about to celebrate a 35th anniversary tomorrow, and our marriage has had the ups and downs like the story of Eros. Thankfully we both matured, and moved from being 'in love' to knowing how to love on a daily basis. The Two of Cups is a fortuitous meeting; what we do from there is up to us. The Eight of Diamonds shows a cat playing a video game and represents competition. Any relationship based on one person winning and the other losing will never have a happy ending.</p>thesycamoretreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15182019323050600440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4948441046758510841.post-64539740271774708462024-03-17T09:25:00.002-04:002024-03-17T09:25:38.262-04:00The Excitement and Anxiety of Leaving<p>This week I'll be using Songs for the Journey Home, a deck and book set created and self-published by Catherine Cook and Dwariko von Sommaruga. I'll also be using <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/stasiab?ref=simple-shop-header-name&listing_id=610015776&section_id=42790730" target="_blank">Stasia Burrington</a>'s self-published deck, Magic Neko. Today's draws are Flame Innocence (Page of Wands) and the the King of Spades:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9AvHo2lIfgqIjogcxRutm0a4DlfqMA3dCu3bsp_HM9Vggji_YJSOgAYKR3Ub2JDJ6bl5bwrZFNzG6hTrdDgjq5rPlQg_wpH89URSrVVc0-ZfvRrrsANP0uBtYehKuIl4DMZ06DYL5ZCSQcZKeuyjwSguiPn3dR05BT8ZMUe_665bj9ZNxsZ5g9DL24l8/s1248/flame%20innocence.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1239" data-original-width="1248" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9AvHo2lIfgqIjogcxRutm0a4DlfqMA3dCu3bsp_HM9Vggji_YJSOgAYKR3Ub2JDJ6bl5bwrZFNzG6hTrdDgjq5rPlQg_wpH89URSrVVc0-ZfvRrrsANP0uBtYehKuIl4DMZ06DYL5ZCSQcZKeuyjwSguiPn3dR05BT8ZMUe_665bj9ZNxsZ5g9DL24l8/s320/flame%20innocence.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN1aPeVVzh0nkCcsZZ1yVBmWLW_PMkVin2c6YR1J086_i__YuM1ynFDbU1gvKyKFQKtnUgGMyY853nllde5QW4CAOe2ukaiHP-meFNvn2ZoBYZddfTnq9plcK6Cj-caWHNrINtBnxLC6TvlDrAvaccECu7Nh05iX5v3DxiF380eo5XaZF-pypO86p6yks/s1006/king%20of%20spades.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1006" data-original-width="702" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN1aPeVVzh0nkCcsZZ1yVBmWLW_PMkVin2c6YR1J086_i__YuM1ynFDbU1gvKyKFQKtnUgGMyY853nllde5QW4CAOe2ukaiHP-meFNvn2ZoBYZddfTnq9plcK6Cj-caWHNrINtBnxLC6TvlDrAvaccECu7Nh05iX5v3DxiF380eo5XaZF-pypO86p6yks/w139-h200/king%20of%20spades.jpg" width="139" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><i>You get a strange feeling when you're about to leave a place...like you'll not only miss the people you love but you'll miss the person you are now at this time and this place, because you'll never be this way ever again.</i> ― Azar Nafisi</div></div><br /><p>I imagine this girl thinking of leaving middle school for high school, and then possibly going off to college. I remember that mix of excitement about what the world holds and the anxiety of wondering if I had what it takes to succeed. But what I think of most is all the ways my ideas and beliefs were challenged and sometimes changed by being in a new place surrounded by so many people who were different from me. It felt good to stretch and use my wings, and it allowed my mind to develop and expand. The King of Spades represents self-sufficiency. As Michel de Montaigne wrote, "The greatest thing in the world is to know how to belong to oneself." But part of that ability to know how to do things for oneself, is knowing when to ask for help when you're lost or confused!</p>thesycamoretreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15182019323050600440noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4948441046758510841.post-23372159180333677312024-03-16T07:48:00.000-04:002024-03-16T07:48:20.526-04:00<p>From the Tarot of the Secret Forest, the Seven of Cups; from the Faeries' Oracle, Solus:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRcHHsuzRaCpa5gOGBWX5399deS5FKKXd52HcLD1nN1jq6aNf6qAKDQfvgse4ff-CZ9O_p0xTsyybJi2Mi83-Qh9wn42XEHhpIUxSpYas_wYJMDFrri_z3JNd-BVOLXHgB7DULmqEGbSQEvWbLcRjDBcbsKPoTQy6mP6HW0DJm-PmKjxcc0y_8WXoV_aw/s1129/seven%20of%20cups.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1129" data-original-width="671" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRcHHsuzRaCpa5gOGBWX5399deS5FKKXd52HcLD1nN1jq6aNf6qAKDQfvgse4ff-CZ9O_p0xTsyybJi2Mi83-Qh9wn42XEHhpIUxSpYas_wYJMDFrri_z3JNd-BVOLXHgB7DULmqEGbSQEvWbLcRjDBcbsKPoTQy6mP6HW0DJm-PmKjxcc0y_8WXoV_aw/s320/seven%20of%20cups.jpg" width="190" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5PYi9jdks6HtwPJKE0OmOf9FdNAjhC6vvO_J3qYwGvkU2pg2vhoK9erLFCdhr6L9BksdLbU4-rS0Za4PGFxklBRhasv8_J3cJpQLLqmh8QHVJofovaSENmzevHpbWhspgLgf_c6KDTpyNPt-PXvNfVOUbwlBwbcA15BJVPRLVJdtoK36b8L17fcx17po/s1345/solas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1345" data-original-width="852" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5PYi9jdks6HtwPJKE0OmOf9FdNAjhC6vvO_J3qYwGvkU2pg2vhoK9erLFCdhr6L9BksdLbU4-rS0Za4PGFxklBRhasv8_J3cJpQLLqmh8QHVJofovaSENmzevHpbWhspgLgf_c6KDTpyNPt-PXvNfVOUbwlBwbcA15BJVPRLVJdtoK36b8L17fcx17po/s320/solas.jpg" width="203" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div><i>Visionary decision-making happens at the intersection of intuition and logic.</i></div><div>– Paul O’Brien</div></div><p>When feeling bored and restless, it's not always the best time to make a big decision about what might make us happy. In that frame of mind, we're liable to choose a partner, career or goal that seems exciting because it is radically different. Then six months down the road, we find that what we thought was going to fill our cup only empties it as we deal with emotional drama, chaos and exhaustion. Of course there is no perfect choice, but using a balance of practicality and what makes our pulse quicken might allow us to live a more contented life. Solus arrives to help us with indecision, reminding us to burn away all the distractions, bling and fluff to see what lies underneath. Without the window dressing, our choice will be much easier to make. </p>thesycamoretreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15182019323050600440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4948441046758510841.post-50787451540495803532024-03-15T09:25:00.000-04:002024-03-15T09:25:13.767-04:00Emotional Sharing<p>From the Tarot of the Secret Forest, the Three of Cups; from the Faeries' Oracle, Penelope Dreamweaver:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixPrqFVGw6bINg2H92kz65Us5IEYUQnJ3E2A0I4bBSaXxyl16jOdEemQ7fSTbm3Lf1P91FA5o-8dmts1MaHBYeS7cxxndeuBuv2zFkg9qTQepwMHQ6DWP7DmbfoZxK3bD3oFw7Pj96nOy1caiOIAenKxMw0dHHKbeJwjFmpdLzf7i1QZMGgVzOi8rpL_o/s1142/three%20of%20cups.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1142" data-original-width="675" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixPrqFVGw6bINg2H92kz65Us5IEYUQnJ3E2A0I4bBSaXxyl16jOdEemQ7fSTbm3Lf1P91FA5o-8dmts1MaHBYeS7cxxndeuBuv2zFkg9qTQepwMHQ6DWP7DmbfoZxK3bD3oFw7Pj96nOy1caiOIAenKxMw0dHHKbeJwjFmpdLzf7i1QZMGgVzOi8rpL_o/s320/three%20of%20cups.jpg" width="189" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUK5ltXaIMFq0p5Zhf6OjMDiNnjgtIOhtilgv9DHZPdVo9ejkTzam4-IQ1c4Pyw-_U1R2yGQ9UA2DAjtBDreaskcyMXh3uWxLVLCrA1dxTCNuLZuyXhXh8HVsC8w11OovbhxGXtImdHdjW6wL3EfBIaFxgJdkts1iP704OrBzPba6a5h9aeXGjewOMLdU/s1362/penelope%20dreamweaver.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1362" data-original-width="849" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUK5ltXaIMFq0p5Zhf6OjMDiNnjgtIOhtilgv9DHZPdVo9ejkTzam4-IQ1c4Pyw-_U1R2yGQ9UA2DAjtBDreaskcyMXh3uWxLVLCrA1dxTCNuLZuyXhXh8HVsC8w11OovbhxGXtImdHdjW6wL3EfBIaFxgJdkts1iP704OrBzPba6a5h9aeXGjewOMLdU/s320/penelope%20dreamweaver.jpg" width="199" /></a></div><div><br /></div>The companion booklet describes the Three of Cups as emotional sharing, one way we can manage our emotions so they don't manage us. As the proverb says, "Shared joy is a double joy; shared sorrow is half a sorrow." Talking about our feelings with those we trust also develops closeness and strengthens relationships. As C.S. Lewis wrote, we find ourselves saying, "What? You too? I thought I was the only one." Penelope Dreamweaver reminds us that inspiration can be subtle and may appear in the most ordinary encounters. Rather than trying to force it to happen, we just go about our day focusing on what is in front of us. It might even appear unexpected in our conversations with friends!thesycamoretreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15182019323050600440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4948441046758510841.post-21416973605935498152024-03-14T10:30:00.004-04:002024-03-14T10:30:40.914-04:00Removing Hindrances<p>From the Tarot of the Secret Forest, the Sun; from the Faeries' Oracle, the Friends:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfvVDYIKQpkrD9lyIRbaD5BCpsyhByq3JN-c_fFF4cOrXV6i2q3BlLU31fBXxpIZtMEk-1nzVFQfKNwPvXaYSm9o5BEg-Eg7WIrqRqkVAZMOujCw7iADo9DiMu6f1XhgiuUqBcJYoPouTMCVpQEoZnWfmF2VARCoV6jrNdt4-m68CfGTzfcdbcX6vO4TY/s1136/sun.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1136" data-original-width="684" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfvVDYIKQpkrD9lyIRbaD5BCpsyhByq3JN-c_fFF4cOrXV6i2q3BlLU31fBXxpIZtMEk-1nzVFQfKNwPvXaYSm9o5BEg-Eg7WIrqRqkVAZMOujCw7iADo9DiMu6f1XhgiuUqBcJYoPouTMCVpQEoZnWfmF2VARCoV6jrNdt4-m68CfGTzfcdbcX6vO4TY/s320/sun.jpg" width="193" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7Exkjx4g0QVlM5IJLmZCFcNQxowt6Lo65155CuVXuV6lot4kzdx3_deOHQ6FtBqXkVVgW-UiGIei8EPgzh-1Hkf_DzPFoF5tMubg_lCLOSLtvVIBpRYzHzElm2gi-6_-V7xS4nMqdyoT0AN9L085H9aANIRlrkTBiYKuaKQ8X4u9swAkS006ZUbXX-44/s1360/the%20friends.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1360" data-original-width="853" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7Exkjx4g0QVlM5IJLmZCFcNQxowt6Lo65155CuVXuV6lot4kzdx3_deOHQ6FtBqXkVVgW-UiGIei8EPgzh-1Hkf_DzPFoF5tMubg_lCLOSLtvVIBpRYzHzElm2gi-6_-V7xS4nMqdyoT0AN9L085H9aANIRlrkTBiYKuaKQ8X4u9swAkS006ZUbXX-44/s320/the%20friends.jpg" width="201" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div><i>The teachings emphasize removing hindrances to seeing clearly so that one can abide in the clarity of reality as it actually is. </i>—Gaelyn Godwin</div><div><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: left;">In the Secret Forest, the thick canopy of trees shelters most of the woodland, but occasionally trees fall and open up an area to the Sun. The the darkness is replaced with a brightness that clarifies what once was seen only dimly. What are the hindrances that keep us from seeing with clarity? Buddhists identify five categories: </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">1) Sensual desire (craving and grasping for what brings us pleasure)</div><div style="text-align: left;">2) Ill will (hatred, jealousy, self-righteous indignation)</div><div style="text-align: left;">3) Sloth and Torpor (laziness, disinterest, confusion, sleepiness)</div><div style="text-align: left;">4) Restlessness and Worry (an undercurrent of irritation, rumination, anxiety)</div><div style="text-align: left;">5) Skeptical Doubt (cynicism, as opposed to questioning doubt that looks for answers)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">When we see reality as it is, we can make better choices with skill. The Friends card reminds me of a dear friend; like these two beings, we are very different in some regards (race, religion and personality). Yet our values bond us, and our differences help us see each other's blind spots. </div>thesycamoretreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15182019323050600440noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4948441046758510841.post-45478196196214417652024-03-13T09:36:00.001-04:002024-03-13T09:36:45.880-04:00Buy Yourself Some Flowers<p>From the Tarot of the Secret Forest, the Six of Wands; from the Faeries' Oracle, She of the Cruach:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKYTM-0hDmYuQkg8IoeE3rsLWzDzC9XZ8Uex3CVX21cXgxluQAKXdNTCx65R3_VhSdNzePSyO7_i9KCPxVLrvY4szHfRGXLDWNznPJ-biMnpjFdZjvgC0sbU5_IFIkh35XJAALP_H6HKauVID1KvKTujfteU80SdREpFtsvNNPU-YAdCONIR3rbbewrm4/s1131/six%20of%20wands.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1131" data-original-width="662" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKYTM-0hDmYuQkg8IoeE3rsLWzDzC9XZ8Uex3CVX21cXgxluQAKXdNTCx65R3_VhSdNzePSyO7_i9KCPxVLrvY4szHfRGXLDWNznPJ-biMnpjFdZjvgC0sbU5_IFIkh35XJAALP_H6HKauVID1KvKTujfteU80SdREpFtsvNNPU-YAdCONIR3rbbewrm4/s320/six%20of%20wands.jpg" width="187" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxHsGXpZhXCow6rgjL4iUdmXVcjz9tDKU22ggRVKTD1conpit6tUb0TXhOkQD-SBQ_QeIjjcphGJjYyYo0A6vpn_Bi5KmYZ7mHqWiZArSa6vqEpbZFK2_n_2icUJ5hQM41zmI01_hfdb5y709jD62QIgFBpu1YuSeW1P6d4Ieh3-vW6tzG00vgV9QUlag/s1355/she%20of%20the%20cruach.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1355" data-original-width="840" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxHsGXpZhXCow6rgjL4iUdmXVcjz9tDKU22ggRVKTD1conpit6tUb0TXhOkQD-SBQ_QeIjjcphGJjYyYo0A6vpn_Bi5KmYZ7mHqWiZArSa6vqEpbZFK2_n_2icUJ5hQM41zmI01_hfdb5y709jD62QIgFBpu1YuSeW1P6d4Ieh3-vW6tzG00vgV9QUlag/s320/she%20of%20the%20cruach.jpg" width="198" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Plant your own garden and decorate your own soul, instead of waiting for someone to bring you flowers.</i> —Veronica A. Shoffstall</div><p>Not all of us get a parade when we've met our challenges successfully. Instead, some of us find our best friend and go for a joy ride to celebrate. All of our striving and hard work have paid off, and now it's time to let off some pent-up energy. We don't have to wait for the world to acknowledge and celebrate our victory, we can do it ourselves. She of the Cruach is the yin energy of the Universe - creative, nurturing and receptive. She asks us to drink from her cup of acceptance and love, acknowledging our worth and our inner goodness.</p><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Scarcity of self-value cannot be remedied by money, recognition, affection, attention or influence.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;">—Gary Zukav</div>thesycamoretreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15182019323050600440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4948441046758510841.post-48618705430689785622024-03-12T08:29:00.000-04:002024-03-12T08:29:04.809-04:00The Way You Carry It<p>From the Tarot of the Secret Forest, the Ten of Wands; from the Faeries' Oracle, the Topsy Turvets:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8qiJUz6BRU7ZHrTIvS-X7DXGr60sZrN-IEmumoBF2wDySw20loJj0P-FhfGlDVx9c8-yir_N0_jwdLT6CIOYSYwRvclID-B-qddkPPWq_DpLQO93nMBkniLbo3lXi8r3zFhlEMdG9rva4DTuKpM_29o8tXheC4CFSh_EmazYrfOh5ob5ZlC-gYzfWl2k/s1134/ten%20of%20wands.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1134" data-original-width="684" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8qiJUz6BRU7ZHrTIvS-X7DXGr60sZrN-IEmumoBF2wDySw20loJj0P-FhfGlDVx9c8-yir_N0_jwdLT6CIOYSYwRvclID-B-qddkPPWq_DpLQO93nMBkniLbo3lXi8r3zFhlEMdG9rva4DTuKpM_29o8tXheC4CFSh_EmazYrfOh5ob5ZlC-gYzfWl2k/s320/ten%20of%20wands.jpg" width="193" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9hn6Fc_7hnM3CYMggjay4KQgRevTOTyq3kOTJYWg9rvEn2HYctUPCEJ8gySmi6uR1zQp2Ouy6haublDrZXnQcEOCSXe5BcITcceOkWE15ru8_7QS_co01K0fhqEWzfi2BUOC1bEas_Tdy6PQe3He6Fc4mzZXE-9sgQplZOwSaCGpEIKPuktCsxr-dvXM/s1348/topsy%20turvets.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1348" data-original-width="841" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9hn6Fc_7hnM3CYMggjay4KQgRevTOTyq3kOTJYWg9rvEn2HYctUPCEJ8gySmi6uR1zQp2Ouy6haublDrZXnQcEOCSXe5BcITcceOkWE15ru8_7QS_co01K0fhqEWzfi2BUOC1bEas_Tdy6PQe3He6Fc4mzZXE-9sgQplZOwSaCGpEIKPuktCsxr-dvXM/s320/topsy%20turvets.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div><i>It's not the load that breaks you down, it's the way you carry it.</i></div><div>― Lou Holtz</div></div><p>Snapping turtles hibernate during the winter months, and when they emerge, they sometimes unintentionally carry part of their winter home with them. Humans too can suddenly find such a weight on their shoulders, especially if they are in a caregiving role. Stress can show up in feelings of frustration, sadness, loneliness and anxiety as well as a strain on our physical health. It is important to realize that the caregiver needs care too. It also helps to remember: nothing lasts forever, humor can lighten the load, and we often find help when we ask others for it. The Topsie Turvets visit when we are in a mental muddle and give us a chance to see from a different viewpoint. They tell us to ask different questions and question our assumptions. There's always another side to every story.</p><div style="text-align: center;"><div><i>When we cultivate mind in everyday life, we have to let go of everything we experience. We don’t need to add any more baggage. If you just keep letting go of everything and moving forward, you’ll reach the top of the mountain. </i>–Daehaeng Kun Sunim</div></div>thesycamoretreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15182019323050600440noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4948441046758510841.post-18228208129627766942024-03-11T08:46:00.002-04:002024-03-11T08:47:05.447-04:00A Real Seeker<p>From the Tarot of the Secret Forest, the Knight of Swords; from the Faeries' Oracle, the Journeyman:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC8xUKwv0Ay1X1X6BlzX0YTNdiBoUDZRQhKVcqh3lKSq-HcmTTt1wefx-H5CwDP6e-ZlwiC1Jv_z5NBkvS-NSnppFTvs62h9cOGDFZMYvr0yzZ-F3HCck9Z726KiuebXtZABqMK-aQVkLQDDFRk_2BIAOsWkccpwJe_p1FgFetZ-0ArWcU5OXg3y-6Tdg/s1122/knight%20of%20swords.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1122" data-original-width="680" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC8xUKwv0Ay1X1X6BlzX0YTNdiBoUDZRQhKVcqh3lKSq-HcmTTt1wefx-H5CwDP6e-ZlwiC1Jv_z5NBkvS-NSnppFTvs62h9cOGDFZMYvr0yzZ-F3HCck9Z726KiuebXtZABqMK-aQVkLQDDFRk_2BIAOsWkccpwJe_p1FgFetZ-0ArWcU5OXg3y-6Tdg/s320/knight%20of%20swords.jpg" width="194" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG26tBAE5fOwaa9UQS0ziU_OuB8arrXlSPeWF0MBEJwwQAtZZTdwi82Nyslk3gXapkD7EUXzDy8n_IUFyFymsahJp35nEJytUdivvMOjQG_RTiJfUb-UqBe-BUVfsFLW_PgOR1XvoBi4dnhaDSKfNZ3cef72-s1vcdZITOKi03GCZbyzjNZ4dngnWA2eE/s1364/journeyman.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1364" data-original-width="843" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG26tBAE5fOwaa9UQS0ziU_OuB8arrXlSPeWF0MBEJwwQAtZZTdwi82Nyslk3gXapkD7EUXzDy8n_IUFyFymsahJp35nEJytUdivvMOjQG_RTiJfUb-UqBe-BUVfsFLW_PgOR1XvoBi4dnhaDSKfNZ3cef72-s1vcdZITOKi03GCZbyzjNZ4dngnWA2eE/s320/journeyman.jpg" width="198" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div><i>If you would be a real seeker after truth, it is necessary that at least once in your life you doubt, as far as possible, all things.</i> ― René Descartes</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">It is ironic that the Knight of Swords doubts nearly every other person's ideas but not his own. Why is it that we're so willing to slash and burn what others say and think, but we never question our own opinions? Rainer Maria Rilke wrote that helpful doubt isn't simply a cynic; it questions and looks for proof. And having such an accessory in our saddlebag can turn our to be a very intelligent and useful tool for building a life. The Journeyman goes into the world with a childlike trust and a beginner's mind. Testing himself and his knowledge, he willingly lets go of that which he finds useless or false. He would tell this Knight that any concept that is not tested against reality is not worth holding in a tight grip.</div></div><p><br /></p>thesycamoretreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15182019323050600440noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4948441046758510841.post-44837128937342107762024-03-10T09:26:00.000-04:002024-03-10T09:26:32.512-04:00Finding Our Core<p>This week I'll be using Tarot of the Secret Forest, created by Lucia Mattioli and published by Lo Scarabeo. I'll also be drawing from the Faeries' Oracle created by Brian Froud with text by Jessica Macbeth; it was published by Simon & Schuster. Today's cards are the Two of Swords and The Laume:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdiZJghYVXP3pr9DT8_-qqeJR0sU0aqGTsoRWnNqHujrsNkGmMNca7VungCYBeuXDZYJxrJGPMYIMi-0mQijqULN9MGh6pSrXZCkL8eBXTaDNYebol9AYe0VMsYQtkJP9brD0Ic5UECIRLL-uH1G80YHK75m9srSnzKlv_rirmnLCe9RekdLQYYkYWHcw/s1129/two%20of%20swords.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1129" data-original-width="672" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdiZJghYVXP3pr9DT8_-qqeJR0sU0aqGTsoRWnNqHujrsNkGmMNca7VungCYBeuXDZYJxrJGPMYIMi-0mQijqULN9MGh6pSrXZCkL8eBXTaDNYebol9AYe0VMsYQtkJP9brD0Ic5UECIRLL-uH1G80YHK75m9srSnzKlv_rirmnLCe9RekdLQYYkYWHcw/s320/two%20of%20swords.jpg" width="190" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcWrzgH3tbuqvgdOFL2371CvBv3hgBsXbtdLFIlwQrMr00_QgvwUKUGUIVbRWhUOmxcsgT8onMEAXnyGIidyFyaHvRTzfE_beU-qLvFPOTc0uzYuydLFIAabxwrUmc5A5ogFAhSpJch2mr_AeEJigdwXSDcNlQOAFBfM49uFCyISvPTdpfR4xAJuZp-SY/s1371/laume.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1371" data-original-width="852" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcWrzgH3tbuqvgdOFL2371CvBv3hgBsXbtdLFIlwQrMr00_QgvwUKUGUIVbRWhUOmxcsgT8onMEAXnyGIidyFyaHvRTzfE_beU-qLvFPOTc0uzYuydLFIAabxwrUmc5A5ogFAhSpJch2mr_AeEJigdwXSDcNlQOAFBfM49uFCyISvPTdpfR4xAJuZp-SY/s320/laume.jpg" width="199" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div><i>It is only in solitude that I ever find my own core.</i></div><div>—Anne Morrow Lindbergh</div></div><p>A lone figure stands on a rocky ledge next to an evergreen tree as he ponders a decision. The booklet states that this is a time for renouncing emotions and analyzing things rationally. This is often easier when we follow Lindbergh's words above. Solitude can remove the pressures of others trying to influence us; it allows us to see at our core not only what we want but what we need. The Laume is a fairy who knows the joy in giving without expectation, but she also encourages receiving without shame. As Jane Goodall said, “What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.” What would be a kindness to others as well as oneself - not just now but in the long run?</p>thesycamoretreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15182019323050600440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4948441046758510841.post-3098999257040941032024-03-09T07:47:00.001-05:002024-03-09T07:51:11.805-05:00Those Who Dream<p>From the Shadowscapes Tarot, the Three of Wands; from the Cedar Runes, Dagaz:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinoXbzDC1QnxwGK4mCEVXM3NYdVpEyHPIE7F0CvFPaloDANknKAqFIqcPcb43lYfOYKYgxKg40ut10Xifo99V2nQX6_lbq_WkZB1xAWHWAo0Gtb9WXSB8kD1KqwAhAK56b3PBN7FI90PONvHKaQyUS4q-eIY3WV_AfETQke_VkEnDt-9qR_11mrUYgY3A/s1246/three%20of%20wands.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1246" data-original-width="735" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinoXbzDC1QnxwGK4mCEVXM3NYdVpEyHPIE7F0CvFPaloDANknKAqFIqcPcb43lYfOYKYgxKg40ut10Xifo99V2nQX6_lbq_WkZB1xAWHWAo0Gtb9WXSB8kD1KqwAhAK56b3PBN7FI90PONvHKaQyUS4q-eIY3WV_AfETQke_VkEnDt-9qR_11mrUYgY3A/w236-h400/three%20of%20wands.jpg" width="236" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHhm2w3EFBbHXnJ0CfJhaDJg6REJ8cpWG3AB8y-wmLMdnAI2fYgAVTocQ-oUVZqXnAzrN90YLrq8tfC9s-tP2p9VjzCR3oZXPXboOAFj9JKK1hgTTpjZe7ZDXH03pSbJ9U290UAObBTqre9Bn6AsUBgivhtaeZ-heXBkLCXFkmdzzs5zG4nVcCAbxwwy0/s609/dagaz.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="609" data-original-width="248" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHhm2w3EFBbHXnJ0CfJhaDJg6REJ8cpWG3AB8y-wmLMdnAI2fYgAVTocQ-oUVZqXnAzrN90YLrq8tfC9s-tP2p9VjzCR3oZXPXboOAFj9JKK1hgTTpjZe7ZDXH03pSbJ9U290UAObBTqre9Bn6AsUBgivhtaeZ-heXBkLCXFkmdzzs5zG4nVcCAbxwwy0/s320/dagaz.jpg" width="130" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div><i>The problems of the world cannot possibly be solved by skeptics or cynics whose horizons are limited by the obvious realities. We need men who can dream of things that never were. </i></div><div>~John F. Kennedy</div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">From high atop a rocky outcrop, a woman surveys the land. This view gives her a much wider perspective than being closed in by the trees below. The companion book states that this card encourages us to expand our horizons and discover uncharted territory. But to do these things we must first believe in such a possibility, then we must push away from our comfort zone. We step away from our assumptions and broaden our scope, moving toward what is different rather than away from it. Dagaz means 'light' and suggests an awakening - a truth breaking into our reality. Moving out of our routines and usual trajectories can't help but awaken us to a wider, exciting world.</div>thesycamoretreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15182019323050600440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4948441046758510841.post-1783436486251248202024-03-08T08:30:00.001-05:002024-03-08T08:30:13.808-05:00Slow Engine of Destruction<p>From the Shadowscapes Tarot, the Page of Swords; from the Cedar Runes, Sowilo:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaSWto6q-hfHjZ_a_UVW0sVCto28nRYZizjVaQ-eioeUWllQz5C2CS11axDDoGnkvW0dh2uWQaw-1ZzeSyjmbZ6CDeGxj6KPqmVYiuA2AoIWDphw3ZxZaJVpUQ13MYqvFI0MJZa5tTgZTIgJmT_YkE6uxCErzNXA_GutX0lkVC_Y3sgvHeHV5rt3jqwSA/s1252/page%20of%20swords.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1252" data-original-width="738" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaSWto6q-hfHjZ_a_UVW0sVCto28nRYZizjVaQ-eioeUWllQz5C2CS11axDDoGnkvW0dh2uWQaw-1ZzeSyjmbZ6CDeGxj6KPqmVYiuA2AoIWDphw3ZxZaJVpUQ13MYqvFI0MJZa5tTgZTIgJmT_YkE6uxCErzNXA_GutX0lkVC_Y3sgvHeHV5rt3jqwSA/w236-h400/page%20of%20swords.jpg" width="236" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBBQwK8JSLQKKh2DlLWKxU915_dJd3ykPVp4b-maIrH8uYKlSRKyaX4uiwkn7hr8H0Yv_D0JJU04JZpogWz1jQEDpLFh-IbSn4CL0rVBB3SmsJcGjSpodfJYk-3DiJRoFfkxxKVasiJgp8RBuae13Iao8EnRmfhkczn1xZM34W11HdirVt1651A8Q0FAc/s620/sowilo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="620" data-original-width="251" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBBQwK8JSLQKKh2DlLWKxU915_dJd3ykPVp4b-maIrH8uYKlSRKyaX4uiwkn7hr8H0Yv_D0JJU04JZpogWz1jQEDpLFh-IbSn4CL0rVBB3SmsJcGjSpodfJYk-3DiJRoFfkxxKVasiJgp8RBuae13Iao8EnRmfhkczn1xZM34W11HdirVt1651A8Q0FAc/s320/sowilo.jpg" width="130" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div><i>Fire and swords are slow engines of destruction, compared to the tongue of a Gossip.</i></div><div>~Richard Steele</div></div><p>The Page of Swords always likes to have an intellectual edge, so she and the swans have a daily gossip fest. She explains that it's important to have as much current information as possible, although most of the scuttlebutt shared is greatly exaggerated or untrue. Gathering such hearsay is simply a way for her to feel like she has an advantage over others. She has not yet learned that this is a sieve that will never fill and hold what she seeks. Sowilo is translated as 'sun' and considered a guide to success. The rune poems call it the light of the world and the destroyer of ice; it gives clarity, shows us the truth, and thus destroys any deceptions. It would suggest the Page take a clear look at her self-serving motives for gossip and see that it doesn't really serve her at all. </p>thesycamoretreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15182019323050600440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4948441046758510841.post-31820644346370545832024-03-07T08:31:00.000-05:002024-03-07T08:31:15.880-05:00The Way Appears<p>From the Shadowscapes Tarot, the Eight of Swords; from the Cedar Runes, Ansuz:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFsO066c2degJZZ_LJ10jiCKe8d2VVNunLtBWhVICCiLxnvRUOBjF6KIAqmqVgeJv7FP0OtCEmjmi5PO9y_kgrBkGO50CBVlmlRlH44NNJJcgliUyYzqsqo3AudXzDxI8MnOqAGk3UTaptQqV0JYBeK6UemVXtBfAiMYkZNx7piBE4FR_u8qXRUuB4_nY/s1239/eight%20of%20swords.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1239" data-original-width="729" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFsO066c2degJZZ_LJ10jiCKe8d2VVNunLtBWhVICCiLxnvRUOBjF6KIAqmqVgeJv7FP0OtCEmjmi5PO9y_kgrBkGO50CBVlmlRlH44NNJJcgliUyYzqsqo3AudXzDxI8MnOqAGk3UTaptQqV0JYBeK6UemVXtBfAiMYkZNx7piBE4FR_u8qXRUuB4_nY/w235-h400/eight%20of%20swords.jpg" width="235" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnBzj2V-QgzoxcLTtEeBRSAaW9iTuidey1DhZxqWsNbztinPdyqYBD1xBXIhygpZ8UwspOAQkyUWdClMrGSY2e_GHCmyj-doZCsvbe9f0r9vAVaiapyEtSg4VFcqbRP0iuUHFskNrPQNXo3w774F1XIkiitTvPTSd4pPE0lBE0OaiHEtmKUi_Y8Vjladw/s612/ansuz.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="612" data-original-width="246" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnBzj2V-QgzoxcLTtEeBRSAaW9iTuidey1DhZxqWsNbztinPdyqYBD1xBXIhygpZ8UwspOAQkyUWdClMrGSY2e_GHCmyj-doZCsvbe9f0r9vAVaiapyEtSg4VFcqbRP0iuUHFskNrPQNXo3w774F1XIkiitTvPTSd4pPE0lBE0OaiHEtmKUi_Y8Vjladw/s320/ansuz.jpg" width="129" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>As you start to walk on the way, the way appears.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;">― Rumi</div><p>The Eight of Swords depicts those periods when we feel powerless and trapped by circumstances. Like this swan surrounded by thorny brambles and unable to fly, we think we can't move. But the swan, using it's sharp beak, could move some briers and <i>walk</i> out of them. We often feel stuck because we fall back on old patterns of thinking and acting, which only further entrenches us in a feeling of helplessness. Instead, we could do something different, even if that action seems to have no connection at all to the issue. But it could help the real issue - getting our mind unstuck and giving it a slightly different view. Ansuz is said to symbolize the mouth of the wise Odin and suggests divine or ancestral wisdom or inspiration. When we feel powerless, it is easy to forget that others may have advice and encouragement that could help us. All we need to do is ask and listen.</p>thesycamoretreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15182019323050600440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4948441046758510841.post-71318260761019888052024-03-06T08:38:00.000-05:002024-03-06T08:38:25.702-05:00Emotional Tethers<p>From the Shadowscapes Tarot, the King of Cups; from the Cedar Runes, Uruz:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2d9UBc7qHvW5qrE6IXDvYK8AVT_bV0KuH8Kj-DmfnA9kn00mkGmkgNL1MsgTSkn_ovpBSU71d4VqKfppAHE8_XMf1Cj4jJDSpZB3Q_OLCdYBOBKr7yOuDmIl_gA6xatRD3NpHGVMi0tvRjWYHFgWj4yKK4MJYwnvhI9vWeJNvKSnwavN4_pXQX21DQ9Q/s1240/king%20of%20cups.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1240" data-original-width="733" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2d9UBc7qHvW5qrE6IXDvYK8AVT_bV0KuH8Kj-DmfnA9kn00mkGmkgNL1MsgTSkn_ovpBSU71d4VqKfppAHE8_XMf1Cj4jJDSpZB3Q_OLCdYBOBKr7yOuDmIl_gA6xatRD3NpHGVMi0tvRjWYHFgWj4yKK4MJYwnvhI9vWeJNvKSnwavN4_pXQX21DQ9Q/w236-h400/king%20of%20cups.jpg" width="236" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWDSnUe1PWz8p76gApdQ8T-3jYniviA6OzZ2l2H7wR-L4HyisXz418e48pgS-Rn-Lhtt6-pijGRqDcWQH10PiIclWqFjck5POnHn4tQ1HajuOKvnQTm_Q64YoAC9mHCQV2D74SuztaNfykxb1LgWmUZI6s-bAtdaDE6RAlxfUlGQcsD8Dqiv9Zl3GHp3c/s619/uruz.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="619" data-original-width="255" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWDSnUe1PWz8p76gApdQ8T-3jYniviA6OzZ2l2H7wR-L4HyisXz418e48pgS-Rn-Lhtt6-pijGRqDcWQH10PiIclWqFjck5POnHn4tQ1HajuOKvnQTm_Q64YoAC9mHCQV2D74SuztaNfykxb1LgWmUZI6s-bAtdaDE6RAlxfUlGQcsD8Dqiv9Zl3GHp3c/s320/uruz.jpg" width="132" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div><i>You can’t calm the storm, so stop trying. What you can do is calm yourself. The storm will pass.</i></div><div>—Timber Hawkeye</div></div><p>The King of Cups is the calm in the storm, modeling and guiding others with steady patience and composure. I can imagine the male seahorse, with his pouch full of incubating babies, telling the King of his worries for these young ones when they hatch. The King would likely tell the seahorse that risks and challenges are a part of life that help us mature and develop wisdom. But everyone needs an emotional anchor when the waves get rough, and and that tether will be different for all. The rune Uruz is based on a primordial wild ox. It suggest endurance and strength will be needed in our endeavors. In the case of an emotional anchor, it may be best not to tie ourselves to a person, but to our own spiritual practices that provide us with resilience.</p>thesycamoretreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15182019323050600440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4948441046758510841.post-12244436422249671252024-03-05T08:51:00.001-05:002024-03-05T08:51:56.382-05:00Valid and Valuable<p>From the Shadowscapes Tarot, the Queen of Cups; from the Cedar Runes, Jera:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbRjH-EDFSzjLGrHMOHpCw6aJWmfQPrMbgDMBuCqfdI_SvH88OJ6KjATdIpJoaXVDfCZqFoP-h57wA1v2OZFHe2Gy-SzANGou-l-UicDWynQP0U9vZOYi835SSH_kEO3Xk1obaimWRDBnieLtFmZj-jGczqZrvXiE3RfPyRl_r7esQ-zRxG-ZSH96aLuQ/s1246/queen%20of%20cups.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1246" data-original-width="739" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbRjH-EDFSzjLGrHMOHpCw6aJWmfQPrMbgDMBuCqfdI_SvH88OJ6KjATdIpJoaXVDfCZqFoP-h57wA1v2OZFHe2Gy-SzANGou-l-UicDWynQP0U9vZOYi835SSH_kEO3Xk1obaimWRDBnieLtFmZj-jGczqZrvXiE3RfPyRl_r7esQ-zRxG-ZSH96aLuQ/w238-h400/queen%20of%20cups.jpg" width="238" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDcNRQ3eW877i3jpP4vdqXfkfqWy5jqSIXQtHUOYABON5UCXMgFt58nt0z2Ddo4QQwGa0W_uQDVfKP108-ezcsx1uafuhmaKOqxM2DkwWk_Y6DAf8z17cYWNpjebC_G8d0Td3nZVaSK39WGARfku3oP4FnhiQ46aWWEHFrMxa-xZuuoU6aJTMQUeSSX5I/s644/jera.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="644" data-original-width="255" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDcNRQ3eW877i3jpP4vdqXfkfqWy5jqSIXQtHUOYABON5UCXMgFt58nt0z2Ddo4QQwGa0W_uQDVfKP108-ezcsx1uafuhmaKOqxM2DkwWk_Y6DAf8z17cYWNpjebC_G8d0Td3nZVaSK39WGARfku3oP4FnhiQ46aWWEHFrMxa-xZuuoU6aJTMQUeSSX5I/s320/jera.jpg" width="127" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div><i>We don't have to force a smile or pretend we're OK and write that we're #blessed when we feel we're not. It's OK to believe life sucks sometimes - because it absolutely does. It can also be beautiful. It's not either/or, it's both. </i>—Lori Deschene</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">This Queen's grace and fluidity is guided by her heart and intuition. She is unafraid of her emotions and doesn't believe one is better than another; in her world, they are all valid and beneficial. If we are curious and acknowledge our feelings, we can glean information from them. But if we try to ignore them or become intoxicated by them, they are like a great stone that pulls us under the waves. Jera is a rune that is related to cycles of time and relates to the harvest in particular. While a harvest is associated with a profit or benefit, it also requires a struggle and hard work to obtain the yield. Likewise, learning from and managing our emotions will bear beneficial fruits, but it requires a persistent effort.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div><p><br /></p>thesycamoretreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15182019323050600440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4948441046758510841.post-63646606133229369102024-03-04T08:00:00.001-05:002024-03-04T08:00:36.666-05:00The Thoughtful Soul<p>From the Shadowscapes Tarot, the Hermit; from the Cedar Runes, Laguz:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzgqLmG6vVEPNknVlXdxrVY3xzyMXkqi1HoS1N354p2yGTdnklcwRXjv2nH5YfBxxMCm4i7eODOP9GB5jvwqO1F1TxP3JvWl-J6mwqh029r4fb96UZqTlXkqDeP_mI6GrWqIf262eFro507VUStIK3HRyvL9E2EoC6YwizPWB0y5pugiBL9qMh-9dGn0I/s1252/hermit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1252" data-original-width="731" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzgqLmG6vVEPNknVlXdxrVY3xzyMXkqi1HoS1N354p2yGTdnklcwRXjv2nH5YfBxxMCm4i7eODOP9GB5jvwqO1F1TxP3JvWl-J6mwqh029r4fb96UZqTlXkqDeP_mI6GrWqIf262eFro507VUStIK3HRyvL9E2EoC6YwizPWB0y5pugiBL9qMh-9dGn0I/w234-h400/hermit.jpg" width="234" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc_eTpEpDuJlk8BK3gVWLP_OZm-tisqqqdRPV9V6dV0SkjtaiQWqM7ESKH4kfYZXeKwY0JK1Byld0wwi9fpHsY0tAsvnyHEJDJ20huTZSGuL-9abGJ69tFPRvV5O0TPIkN3WEul8rzWF7fr2U0Wy7MHL_CkfcDkCeJdakTr3KCSAqB-JMat4l2BzzCy44/s596/laguz.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="596" data-original-width="255" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc_eTpEpDuJlk8BK3gVWLP_OZm-tisqqqdRPV9V6dV0SkjtaiQWqM7ESKH4kfYZXeKwY0JK1Byld0wwi9fpHsY0tAsvnyHEJDJ20huTZSGuL-9abGJ69tFPRvV5O0TPIkN3WEul8rzWF7fr2U0Wy7MHL_CkfcDkCeJdakTr3KCSAqB-JMat4l2BzzCy44/s320/laguz.jpg" width="137" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>The thoughtful soul to solitude retires.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;">~Omar Khayyam</div><p>If we want to untangle our mind and perceive how our behaviors have created unskillful patterns, we need solitude. Away from the noise of people, the ping of smartphones, and blaring televisions, we find the space needed for reflection, contemplation and a wider perspective. Philosopher Martin Buber called solitude the "place of purification," and Anne M. Lindbergh wrote that it was the only place where she could find her own core. Yet the circular stone in this card is a reminder that solitude is not meant to be permanent; we must return to transform our daily lives with what we have discovered. Laguz means 'water,' and can be both a blessing and a challenge. It provides travel and sustenance, yet as the Old English poem states, "the brine stallion does not mind it's bridle." Flooding and stormy seas are beyond human control, just as much of life is as well. It helps, however, if we take time to see what pushes our buttons or motivates us, so that we can influence our own thoughts, attitudes and actions.</p>thesycamoretreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15182019323050600440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4948441046758510841.post-69858080552495618532024-03-03T08:52:00.000-05:002024-03-03T08:52:02.241-05:00Embrace the Day<p>This week I'll be using the Shadowscapes book and deck set published by Llewellyn. The artwork is done by Stephanie Pui-Mun Law and the book is written by Barbara Moore. I'll also be drawing from a set of Cedar Runes; <i>The Serpent and the Eagle</i> by Chris Travers will serve as an accompanying text. Today's draws are the Sun and Raidho:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_OV41wDuUQDTAtjnOtXan44DalOA7QirzSgLpnYIWuRIgiwSt6_vt76-6lRJTcwL-2JqjE2XLu60MeQmK5zS1z8BUeLWgiim4P9hfwN95hN2Q1-OERvaplvzZE7XOOwkuPML3dR8tqoZGQzVPs7DpmXGbKDOkuZfE-5MFptOj3A-7d81nIur78nQRaAc/s1246/sun.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1246" data-original-width="736" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_OV41wDuUQDTAtjnOtXan44DalOA7QirzSgLpnYIWuRIgiwSt6_vt76-6lRJTcwL-2JqjE2XLu60MeQmK5zS1z8BUeLWgiim4P9hfwN95hN2Q1-OERvaplvzZE7XOOwkuPML3dR8tqoZGQzVPs7DpmXGbKDOkuZfE-5MFptOj3A-7d81nIur78nQRaAc/w236-h400/sun.jpg" width="236" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3aBd31b_CejPVSfpoivxgNhhqeet7Qd5G1_KsgJNYVfouTn2MNbI-b5hYnCN32Jt4ZdfNEMaaSVPnCG8QhTRNpeC5o-064ostquJ86k2ZmjVwTpPyfBDXnN4fjNgh_y3H70z3N8EHQctJuKiTORW26zvD6oyLVLGo_5rk19t81Chq5nMJ0kKVo1pNPuo/s567/raidho.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="567" data-original-width="204" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3aBd31b_CejPVSfpoivxgNhhqeet7Qd5G1_KsgJNYVfouTn2MNbI-b5hYnCN32Jt4ZdfNEMaaSVPnCG8QhTRNpeC5o-064ostquJ86k2ZmjVwTpPyfBDXnN4fjNgh_y3H70z3N8EHQctJuKiTORW26zvD6oyLVLGo_5rk19t81Chq5nMJ0kKVo1pNPuo/s320/raidho.jpg" width="115" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> <i>The bright Sun, that brings back, not light alone, but new life, and hope, and freshness to man...</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">~Charles Dickens</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div>We've had quite a few gray, rainy days lately, but as soon as blue skies and the sun return, the neighborhood will fill with people taking walks or gardening. Sunshine seems to be magnetic that way, pulling people (as well as animals and plants) upward and outward. It's no wonder the Sun is a symbol of vitality, radiant joy and growth. Our energy and optimism return, motivating us to embrace the day. Raidho ('riding') suggests an internal or external journey. As the Anglo-Saxon rune poem alludes, it's easy to romanticize such a challenge, but actually being on the road can demand energy and tenacity. As John Steinbeck put it, "we do not take a trip; a trip takes us." Keeping our mind clear of glamorous expectations can help us meet any obstacles with skill and humor, while appreciating new sights and insights.<br /><p><br /></p>thesycamoretreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15182019323050600440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4948441046758510841.post-14006372426519107172024-03-02T08:41:00.002-05:002024-03-02T08:41:18.414-05:00Pause and Appreciate<p>From the Restored Order Tarot, the Ten of Pentacles; from the Oracle of Kabbalah, Dalet:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEsIA3pZe_AqmCqf4Ml70G6R_4-Bo_QBjOUINLWaFiKzwx-cp3IZ9vAU83ipUuzrPmenMlpSVSONH3D1jtqtRB9CAuFXjOl5NhQgQudMfY36DJz3bsuKeNUXOHvbfPr25cBbsPnektxkcU-WT3N1rfIliS5uAoQGsGtdu3EAcbfyTC_M1EPb4_ZY7P7NI/s1252/ten%20of%20pentacles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1252" data-original-width="723" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEsIA3pZe_AqmCqf4Ml70G6R_4-Bo_QBjOUINLWaFiKzwx-cp3IZ9vAU83ipUuzrPmenMlpSVSONH3D1jtqtRB9CAuFXjOl5NhQgQudMfY36DJz3bsuKeNUXOHvbfPr25cBbsPnektxkcU-WT3N1rfIliS5uAoQGsGtdu3EAcbfyTC_M1EPb4_ZY7P7NI/s320/ten%20of%20pentacles.jpg" width="185" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHJmsyI2x3HbpokCHsGLnjFAijO-YZiX5BZsKQPziEIuqnDrA0YsjpLx7il5NXySRGkfy5cXTXeYmhkfp88rgqiNL_Dqg5M7gVlMf3dMQ9zaVF6zk_hQEQgSNY_IhRVwvLKxnRawOFF2mcmLygmQ9zm8NrfPIjgykJedMO4nfD86vG6L69j0gQ5o7OLT0/s600/Hebrew%20-%20dalet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="426" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHJmsyI2x3HbpokCHsGLnjFAijO-YZiX5BZsKQPziEIuqnDrA0YsjpLx7il5NXySRGkfy5cXTXeYmhkfp88rgqiNL_Dqg5M7gVlMf3dMQ9zaVF6zk_hQEQgSNY_IhRVwvLKxnRawOFF2mcmLygmQ9zm8NrfPIjgykJedMO4nfD86vG6L69j0gQ5o7OLT0/s320/Hebrew%20-%20dalet.jpg" width="227" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Sometimes the most important thing in a whole day is the rest we take between two deep breaths. </i></div><div style="text-align: center;">—Etty Hillesum</div><br />Well-being indicates not just health and wealth, but a safe place to live. These three generations have these gifts, likely made possible through the efforts of the elder of the family. The scales on the post suggest not only his generosity, but the teaching of moderation in all things to maintain this well-being. The younger couple appear to be full of plans for the day. Yet the older man pets his dog, while making eye contact with his grandson. On the back of his chair, between the two crescent moons, is a design that reminds me of the digital symbol for pause. The elder knows that they are only temporary custodians of all they own. He understands the importance of stopping to appreciate it all during the day. The Hebrew letter Dalet is said to have three meanings: door, a poor person, and to lift up. It is the recognition (door) that we don't really own anything (poor), yet we have been allowed to make use of the resources we have been given (lift up). Its shape represents the form of a bent-over person, signifying humility. In his old age, the head of the family now acknowledges this wisdom.<br /><p><br /></p>thesycamoretreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15182019323050600440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4948441046758510841.post-85145338158383644602024-03-01T08:56:00.002-05:002024-03-01T10:29:12.916-05:00Unmoving<p>From the Restored Order Tarot, the Chariot; from the Oracle of Kabbalah, Hei:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglcnvvJBJjdCuqCTLTiX66iv9SUM1Wv0KfBo7CqPLdDawj0DntzN03CnH95O79vTJGsBQG7iCEnpjtOL5dF7ft0HcAiY3OLWaWFljgF2B9YrnXw-5kHYY5-Tdpr1hSuAn3Z3o6p5tb_TJ3JTB3J0W7W1_VMtQhyphenhyphencD8lEtEddz0P8dHfw0Vp-uPUdp02-s/s1150/chariot.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1150" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglcnvvJBJjdCuqCTLTiX66iv9SUM1Wv0KfBo7CqPLdDawj0DntzN03CnH95O79vTJGsBQG7iCEnpjtOL5dF7ft0HcAiY3OLWaWFljgF2B9YrnXw-5kHYY5-Tdpr1hSuAn3Z3o6p5tb_TJ3JTB3J0W7W1_VMtQhyphenhyphencD8lEtEddz0P8dHfw0Vp-uPUdp02-s/s320/chariot.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4uHMa_t9mzRCtUWEGqZiHeePrPitJ-krw1FyejFEfqW_62Kkh0hrIU7Q-tBfTjBYiscmuaaNa7cOWoL38LCQnJSTf_wClzOMv0GZZ2VC1TeAZ7liAQJtlrzpxl1sj-PZvarpY4h-mPHdY3X0ZKCF2jb_2DBHbnoFkSwm0PPrcLhA-XhcaESTzlCy0yb4/s600/Hebrew%20-%20he.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="428" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4uHMa_t9mzRCtUWEGqZiHeePrPitJ-krw1FyejFEfqW_62Kkh0hrIU7Q-tBfTjBYiscmuaaNa7cOWoL38LCQnJSTf_wClzOMv0GZZ2VC1TeAZ7liAQJtlrzpxl1sj-PZvarpY4h-mPHdY3X0ZKCF2jb_2DBHbnoFkSwm0PPrcLhA-XhcaESTzlCy0yb4/s320/Hebrew%20-%20he.jpg" width="228" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>When you know what you want you go toward it. </i></div><div style="text-align: center;">― Ayn Rand</div><p>The sphinxes asleep in the field of flowers suggest that something has gone awry with this charioteer. They move in the direction of his mind, and he seems to currently have a case of analysis paralysis. Is he afraid of making a wrong choice? Then he should take the words of Bryant McGill to heart: "A person who makes few mistakes makes little progress." Perhaps the journey isn't proceeding as planned, and now he doesn't know whether to keep going forward or turn back. Yet refusing to move won't help; he can make progress or make excuses. Hei is a Hebrew letter that means 'behold' and suggests a nudge to get us to wake up, pay attention, and get out of our rut. Progress doesn't depend on speed, just motion.</p>thesycamoretreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15182019323050600440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4948441046758510841.post-67926302756695935472024-02-29T08:43:00.003-05:002024-02-29T08:43:37.509-05:00A Relative Path<p> From the Restored Order Tarot, the Page of Pentacles; from the Oracle of Kabbalah, Kuf (Qof):</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA1j07ntu1wNKIu5M9Z1kv1qYcKAz6uCaLiI_OtUYJPWGOlp15Bes3MbHTLO7C1yEJk8QCWwqfP12OGQQlJ1cbB1SAmLkhJdNFsXKaiQUeX9tokCwQlUJf9WxWFcZB3sD_vSW3s-YQ9oNeq1UqoL522hA2uhBl9CKxhXFAP_RQ3jxq0pr2V2xhz_sJXeo/s1150/page%20of%20pentacles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1150" data-original-width="724" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA1j07ntu1wNKIu5M9Z1kv1qYcKAz6uCaLiI_OtUYJPWGOlp15Bes3MbHTLO7C1yEJk8QCWwqfP12OGQQlJ1cbB1SAmLkhJdNFsXKaiQUeX9tokCwQlUJf9WxWFcZB3sD_vSW3s-YQ9oNeq1UqoL522hA2uhBl9CKxhXFAP_RQ3jxq0pr2V2xhz_sJXeo/s320/page%20of%20pentacles.jpg" width="201" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh26ga46DypQeAn1HBCRBsiNrYY_TEJA6XOFFskL9ItKXef43HVsKjFmFrzcSdis77Dhl8BMOatMNDI-JuHeqR7eTVT7EQEA3FGIASYOi7YSjv4M_tRxIGLFfdUS7AiWgmudWfCuxFXJatcKJT9E1oRzDMGZcv6mgGvIqans9XkawzXMBhGS8UjC7kUUTo/s600/Hebrew%20-%20qof.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="431" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh26ga46DypQeAn1HBCRBsiNrYY_TEJA6XOFFskL9ItKXef43HVsKjFmFrzcSdis77Dhl8BMOatMNDI-JuHeqR7eTVT7EQEA3FGIASYOi7YSjv4M_tRxIGLFfdUS7AiWgmudWfCuxFXJatcKJT9E1oRzDMGZcv6mgGvIqans9XkawzXMBhGS8UjC7kUUTo/s320/Hebrew%20-%20qof.jpg" width="230" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div><i>Everything is relative; and only that is absolute.</i></div><div>—Auguste Comte</div><div><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: left;">This Page appears to be fully absorbed in his pentacle; no wonder he is considered such a good student. But even this young fellow knows that although absolute truths and abstract ideas make us feel intelligent, they are a bit useless unless we can see how they relate to the world in concrete ways. This Page will do his own homework, testing out each theory in tangible ways. Kuf represents two opposite concepts, the spiritual world and the physical world. It's shape is like the eye of a needle, and numerically it represents completeness (100). It reminds us to find the holy and sacred (abstract and absolute) sewn into our relationships with the earth and all its beings. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div><i>In order to make the leap to the realization of our absolute nature, we have to walk on our relative feet, on a relative path.</i></div><div>—Chagdud Tulku Rinpoche</div></div>thesycamoretreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15182019323050600440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4948441046758510841.post-68100258198032567562024-02-28T08:53:00.002-05:002024-02-28T08:55:19.479-05:00New Priority<p>From the Restored Order Tarot, the Four of Pentacles; from the Oracle of Kabbalah, Zayin:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDlLy8bJs0eF7ByvBIOIoPAyJL7XqgFhmXb_Vdsaf-xWpR4pVuIxSF1XUGhavUGBbFwH-gAHPPU8EKj8amX7qZ1c6be2Fpbk5RygD_EFe3XmFstBfZrQtvrWAA8iBeFdwwUlAX_E0lAMdk_JfJUfiNNnguxOMKVLEN1xIRVRU8acxsnxa3uf0Hv3yHliA/s1247/four%20of%20pentacles.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1247" data-original-width="722" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDlLy8bJs0eF7ByvBIOIoPAyJL7XqgFhmXb_Vdsaf-xWpR4pVuIxSF1XUGhavUGBbFwH-gAHPPU8EKj8amX7qZ1c6be2Fpbk5RygD_EFe3XmFstBfZrQtvrWAA8iBeFdwwUlAX_E0lAMdk_JfJUfiNNnguxOMKVLEN1xIRVRU8acxsnxa3uf0Hv3yHliA/s320/four%20of%20pentacles.jpg" width="185" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-jdQeqYjfvTqMH5XYLmFIP1i6N4Q0u0tVKtOueLjjea5PGaqKiTGGQ-4gbCOsFLvkhT8jLVFmOFFR1lixJ2IU_20EPHSEPMXSh7fbE1BGUhSFnoe7OCyuRZ2kYOYlNY0foF7TRoKenCHjA_nAG6rJznmAKsrcJYGRnJfXyRmrWiGzeI5G2htiQ0Zklao/s600/Hebrew%20-%20zayin.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="434" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-jdQeqYjfvTqMH5XYLmFIP1i6N4Q0u0tVKtOueLjjea5PGaqKiTGGQ-4gbCOsFLvkhT8jLVFmOFFR1lixJ2IU_20EPHSEPMXSh7fbE1BGUhSFnoe7OCyuRZ2kYOYlNY0foF7TRoKenCHjA_nAG6rJznmAKsrcJYGRnJfXyRmrWiGzeI5G2htiQ0Zklao/s320/Hebrew%20-%20zayin.jpg" width="231" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Self-care has become a new priority—the revelation that it’s perfectly permissible to listen to your body and do what it needs.</i> ―Frances Ryan</div><p>When people see pentacles, they think of money and financial security. So it's easy to look at this guy and think he is a miser, obsessively protecting his hoard. But pentacles also represent this body that carries us around, the vehicle that allows us to love, create, and fight for what we believe in. We often take better care of our cars than our bodies, maintaining them far better. This fellow asks if I'm sustaining and nurturing my body, or if I've forgotten how precious it is. Zayin is a paradox. It means 'weapon' (and resembles a sword), yet numerically it is associated with the number seven (the day of rest). Sometimes the sword is not used for fighting, but for cutting a loaf of bread or (metaphorically) dividing our time so that we can rest and care for our bodies. </p>thesycamoretreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15182019323050600440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4948441046758510841.post-78480366690624794792024-02-27T07:48:00.000-05:002024-02-27T07:48:00.382-05:00You Have the Tools<p>From the Restored Order Tarot, the Magician; from the Oracle of Kabbalah, Tet:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX9mI7KGDkynG3ImClQRJS2AE40OtYnHg3o_X4AhgSxD32_M0FX154ATUpHF-JFtp480UHOHe23MlrQSNqQnC6dKKIm6KFS4OXMeeQHNpzBfE72O7b73Nvfnc4CIXLP9qLDm1mNAhITridUQ1O6-pimiomgU5jADIlBWtHHXF5gXYqlF3dgVokMT5pEbQ/s1150/magician.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1150" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX9mI7KGDkynG3ImClQRJS2AE40OtYnHg3o_X4AhgSxD32_M0FX154ATUpHF-JFtp480UHOHe23MlrQSNqQnC6dKKIm6KFS4OXMeeQHNpzBfE72O7b73Nvfnc4CIXLP9qLDm1mNAhITridUQ1O6-pimiomgU5jADIlBWtHHXF5gXYqlF3dgVokMT5pEbQ/s320/magician.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgnf0VFRErJjEQW-298mTlYvbvTDSKlRJOjSij4olo8iaC94TxblWmxLhggSWzKklxnyBRuO3Hm1Q_pymVOpx3MDPlQ1K0WRvUe5nubeGRnDIACrJ-0ElZHV5wYV0xYrM0tycCp-UGYC2busLH-_LKd_KA1iVOndt-2ElZUWSjVN81_HNiDujiZ511NAg/s600/Hebrew%20-%20tet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="432" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgnf0VFRErJjEQW-298mTlYvbvTDSKlRJOjSij4olo8iaC94TxblWmxLhggSWzKklxnyBRuO3Hm1Q_pymVOpx3MDPlQ1K0WRvUe5nubeGRnDIACrJ-0ElZHV5wYV0xYrM0tycCp-UGYC2busLH-_LKd_KA1iVOndt-2ElZUWSjVN81_HNiDujiZ511NAg/s320/Hebrew%20-%20tet.jpg" width="230" /></a><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><i>There are times where you have all the tools you need and all there is to do is to do it.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">― Nnedi Okorafor</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div></div>The Magician points upwards (inspiration and imagination) and downwards (the physical manifestation). Although his mind is full of ideas, his body is the conduit and agent of creation. Those tools on his table are the resources he needs; when combined with effort, he has the ability to bring an abstract idea to fruition. The Hebrew letter Tet is associated with the number nine, a symbol of goodness. Its shape suggests a pot or a bowl with an inverted rim. Tet's message is even when life is difficult, there is still hidden good. Our creations and projects don't always turn out as expected. We might want to keep in mind these words of an anonymous writer: "It is when our plans go 'wrong' that wonderful, unforeseen things are allowed to occur." <br /><p><br /></p>thesycamoretreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15182019323050600440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4948441046758510841.post-45801260338226781522024-02-26T09:03:00.000-05:002024-02-26T09:03:12.071-05:00Ain't Gonna Study War No More<p>From the Tarot of Restored Order, the King of Pentacles; from the Oracle of Kabbalah, Mem:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5g3UwEvWNo7aKJlen7EiQEI6q22pLqLCo2T65UA1kVB_gHEsBp1AMVUjouIUIrTN9ZQpPDFW1p6J2cSbfvFHRQossR-Dr5QoDxrN8W2XPbd_Lv87WAlp5YahX32ge2II1nOCiFydvVmVwAkH_gQTIR3cLpfjqlats1ERV4ew80TbXON23ilzRSaia2fY/s1146/king%20of%20pentacles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1146" data-original-width="722" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5g3UwEvWNo7aKJlen7EiQEI6q22pLqLCo2T65UA1kVB_gHEsBp1AMVUjouIUIrTN9ZQpPDFW1p6J2cSbfvFHRQossR-Dr5QoDxrN8W2XPbd_Lv87WAlp5YahX32ge2II1nOCiFydvVmVwAkH_gQTIR3cLpfjqlats1ERV4ew80TbXON23ilzRSaia2fY/s320/king%20of%20pentacles.jpg" width="202" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn4kRXg1bcZKesLRC00h-gUZiwxbPKB8TgullZyuuLwgTMURI9pielTl5fDvFwmvTKUZn816RVbRXipde686hxjASB_1zX4kFEfzQqo1oxj-ESxZQNUbRKQ2NmpYGv_iWdywJvz0OHAQOqz8PEebi3d7HwQWjgg_D-gwytvcvV7DqfAmQNBqPDUIRTvN8/s600/Hebrew%20-%20mem.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="434" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn4kRXg1bcZKesLRC00h-gUZiwxbPKB8TgullZyuuLwgTMURI9pielTl5fDvFwmvTKUZn816RVbRXipde686hxjASB_1zX4kFEfzQqo1oxj-ESxZQNUbRKQ2NmpYGv_iWdywJvz0OHAQOqz8PEebi3d7HwQWjgg_D-gwytvcvV7DqfAmQNBqPDUIRTvN8/s320/Hebrew%20-%20mem.jpg" width="231" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div><i>Peace is a daily, a weekly, a monthly process, gradually changing opinions, slowly eroding old barriers, quietly building new structures.</i></div><div>— John F. Kennedy</div></div><p>With his strong jawline (reminding me of wrestler John Cena) and the armor peeking out from the bottom of his robe, there's little doubt this King will fight to keep what he's created. He seems a little ill at ease in his new role of ruler rather than warrior, perhaps looking for someone to bonk with that scepter. But from the grapes and other lush vegetation growing around him, it looks like the worst problem he might have right now is kudzu. He would do well to heed the words of Yehudi Menuhin: "Peace may sound simple – one beautiful word – but it requires everything we have, every quality, every strength, every dream, every high ideal." Mem means 'water' and its numerical association is forty. Forty is the number of days it rained in the story of the Flood, and it is the number of days the Jews wandered in the desert. Mem represents a cleansing transformation, one that allows us to live at ease and at peace. As this King has learned, it doesn't happen overnight.</p>thesycamoretreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15182019323050600440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4948441046758510841.post-21970360936509944912024-02-25T08:56:00.001-05:002024-02-25T08:56:07.056-05:00Data Filter<p>This week I'll be using the Tarot in de Herstelde Orde (Tarot in Restored Order), created by Rob Docters van Leeuwen and Onno Docters van Leeuwen; it was published by Servire. The second deck I'll be drawing from is the Oracle of Kabbalah, a deck and book set created by Richard Seidman and published by Thomas Dunne Books. Since the Kabbalah cards are of the letter only and rather plain, I'll be using the illuminated paintings of Victor Brindatch. Today's draws are Juno and Alef:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe4Hoph0_jNiquLE5NkB9ncIyEgW7SvcxmGGjym1ecdKrGA8GhlPYBU8OfnaNvcz-gDNgQDNzLZGncPoaUQ_kBJmXCVOnFGzeBGu9-orgou-r24Ci_FpF6vhiB2XuR6OeWexVEaclWOJ5jRpuba_nBcTHyNqfw0agh2wAKrU33f2qR28V7cDyfVbnav6w/s1152/juno%20intuition.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="725" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe4Hoph0_jNiquLE5NkB9ncIyEgW7SvcxmGGjym1ecdKrGA8GhlPYBU8OfnaNvcz-gDNgQDNzLZGncPoaUQ_kBJmXCVOnFGzeBGu9-orgou-r24Ci_FpF6vhiB2XuR6OeWexVEaclWOJ5jRpuba_nBcTHyNqfw0agh2wAKrU33f2qR28V7cDyfVbnav6w/s320/juno%20intuition.jpg" width="201" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbsG5HXLwdVQZUPLg2gnQxIiQjm_kcOG7JMEnwf0qPLcChEqs4Hk7MROTQ_FlqShF4QMsicn8mXb-zjE3uoX7bt5zthQWv_Yn7sknVvcy9_SNl6GlVR0RZUXcBocnnlttti7cje4OwhLp6LONDgWzhy00pRcauZQ8DAIwRZb9EhPVHgPZ2fJpCNBDIZyM/s600/Hebrew%20-%20alef.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="432" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbsG5HXLwdVQZUPLg2gnQxIiQjm_kcOG7JMEnwf0qPLcChEqs4Hk7MROTQ_FlqShF4QMsicn8mXb-zjE3uoX7bt5zthQWv_Yn7sknVvcy9_SNl6GlVR0RZUXcBocnnlttti7cje4OwhLp6LONDgWzhy00pRcauZQ8DAIwRZb9EhPVHgPZ2fJpCNBDIZyM/s320/Hebrew%20-%20alef.jpg" width="230" /></a><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><i>Intuition becomes increasingly valuable in the new information society precisely because there is so much data. </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">―John Naisbitt</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div></div>The Tarot of Restored Order adds two cards to its deck: Juno (Intuition) and Jupiter (Truth). A temple to Juno Moneta (meaning “Juno Who Warns”) was built on Rome's Capitoline Hill in 344 BCE. According to Plutarch, the cackling of her sacred geese were said to have warned the Romans of an invasion of Gauls, allowing them to save the summit. Juno's card represents that spiritual nudge, bad feeling or intuitive flash that advises us to pay attention and take action. It helps us filter out the overwhelming amount of stimuli and focus on what's important in the moment. Symbolizing oneness or unity, Alef (Aleph) is the first letter of the Hebrew alphabet and means 'master' or 'leader.' When it appears, it suggests we recall what is primary; we need to strip away the superfluous and get back to basics. Both of these cards encourage staying grounded and not getting distracted by meaningless fluff. <br /><p><br /></p>thesycamoretreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15182019323050600440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4948441046758510841.post-53621047453052158412024-02-24T09:27:00.004-05:002024-02-24T09:27:59.026-05:00Depths of Wisdom<p>From the Druidcraft Tarot, the Magician; from the Druid Plant Oracle, Mandrake:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix_kZRKSZvx-MKivGmM43hajPi3bDcCQs4pQ2R2JT6EbO8cmHkXSt_sA3GWXggTdCMCw-gg-LdaB49KVtHLVnu95ejyAU7BpTEpab4_mA_W06yrxDm7QQ78KSv0yEGcKlZzvacqZp9Vdb4aQjADL9I9LISjdTdv5R0zKoD2yTSMJz4FhirjmGT_AmUg8I/s1247/high%20priestess.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1247" data-original-width="797" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix_kZRKSZvx-MKivGmM43hajPi3bDcCQs4pQ2R2JT6EbO8cmHkXSt_sA3GWXggTdCMCw-gg-LdaB49KVtHLVnu95ejyAU7BpTEpab4_mA_W06yrxDm7QQ78KSv0yEGcKlZzvacqZp9Vdb4aQjADL9I9LISjdTdv5R0zKoD2yTSMJz4FhirjmGT_AmUg8I/s320/high%20priestess.jpg" width="205" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzA7w65tB9AmCAaY1sesjMw1FFxdc2zl_SnVr9NBIkfs9MadzIJ_TJLTZmFCc3_X2-0hPiZNpaEe1AxSeBQmK-RMzFq63OxGAcVSohtQO4ODjSUJDRMhMfI-aEZP5fjNFsjmtVOUXWIt3MlalidMjmtdPqlZlm6j5AP4E-_TvOuVgBIrEv5Shr10tBuF8/s1404/mandrake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1404" data-original-width="919" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzA7w65tB9AmCAaY1sesjMw1FFxdc2zl_SnVr9NBIkfs9MadzIJ_TJLTZmFCc3_X2-0hPiZNpaEe1AxSeBQmK-RMzFq63OxGAcVSohtQO4ODjSUJDRMhMfI-aEZP5fjNFsjmtVOUXWIt3MlalidMjmtdPqlZlm6j5AP4E-_TvOuVgBIrEv5Shr10tBuF8/s320/mandrake.jpg" width="209" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Learn to discern the real from the false. Listen only to the Voice that is soundless. Look only on that which is invisible, and remember in yourself is the Temple...</i></div><div style="text-align: center;">~P.D. Ouspensky</div><p>The High Priestess shows us that the entrance to the depths of wisdom is an inner door, not an outer one. It is a place where the ego is quiet, allowing the luminous Voice within to grant us deep understanding. Yet the purpose of finding this door is not to descend into eternal bliss, shutting out the rest of the world. Instead, this knowledge helps us to navigate the world skillfully and compassionately, recognizing that the sacred is interwoven with the mundane. Mandrake is known for its root that resembles a human figure as well as the legend about its scream when uprooted. Its hallucinogenic and narcotic properties induce unconsciousness, and it was used in ancient times as an anaesthetic for surgery. This root asks us: are you trying to sleep through life or awaken to it?</p>thesycamoretreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15182019323050600440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4948441046758510841.post-75705537429997133882024-02-23T08:14:00.000-05:002024-02-23T08:14:49.296-05:00Pledge Allegiance<p>From the Druidcraft Tarot, the Seven of Wands; from the Druid Animal Oracle, the Dog:</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT7obH7TBv_r2Erf8_HsKrSgTdH-Z8LtQmJlFLajdn7wc7ar9PF8sNa3AoONd96V6fQMOj72n6om7HQI46rkKk_XsqSRiZcGYlwj3crjIN7s8iaEZb1Ph-RAV5OJgQQgkuAa3D5IHvD1PyNemyAgXkDwudMuz5kjreM2t6ujFv4iWrIUHrmNB9HHFT4D4/s1240/nine%20of%20wands.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1240" data-original-width="816" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT7obH7TBv_r2Erf8_HsKrSgTdH-Z8LtQmJlFLajdn7wc7ar9PF8sNa3AoONd96V6fQMOj72n6om7HQI46rkKk_XsqSRiZcGYlwj3crjIN7s8iaEZb1Ph-RAV5OJgQQgkuAa3D5IHvD1PyNemyAgXkDwudMuz5kjreM2t6ujFv4iWrIUHrmNB9HHFT4D4/s320/nine%20of%20wands.jpg" width="211" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBRr3L-K_1Cq27gRZbdJVw4ZvRGs0WYba9_H3D4eG1G1TRN5DEH8q3zphquPenWDucuWsqvBVfUrUu05hCCsDqzI6U827oMj3GSChAmDKaY69i_jkG7vzkRaIxKLrZITlQvR6Dxi36OoYFMItecYEQOJVqRogVlpKqP-ppx-OOyQ2bKPSrlU8PviDehRk/s1394/dog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1394" data-original-width="926" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBRr3L-K_1Cq27gRZbdJVw4ZvRGs0WYba9_H3D4eG1G1TRN5DEH8q3zphquPenWDucuWsqvBVfUrUu05hCCsDqzI6U827oMj3GSChAmDKaY69i_jkG7vzkRaIxKLrZITlQvR6Dxi36OoYFMItecYEQOJVqRogVlpKqP-ppx-OOyQ2bKPSrlU8PviDehRk/s320/dog.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><p></p><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Can you remember who you were, before the world told you who you should be?</i></div><div style="text-align: center;">―Charles Bukowski</div><p>This fellow is energetically asserting himself against those who would like to knock him from his perch. Goals take a lot of mental willpower and physical effort, but above all, they require us to stand up to our challengers and challenges. It's easy to evolve into the person who always asks "What should I do - what do you want me to do?" Instead we can look within, discover our own values and dreams, and pursue what we feel led to do. The Dog is a symbol of guidance, protection and loyalty. Yet the person we often let down the most is ourselves. Don't we deserve our own allegiance?</p>thesycamoretreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15182019323050600440noreply@blogger.com0