Tick Tock

From the Tabula Mundi Tarot, the Queen of Disks; from the Words of the Brehon, "Three things that show a weak man:"

It's your reaction to adversity, not adversity itself that determines how your life's story will develop. 

—Dieter F. Uchtdorf

The Queen of Disks is associated with Capricorn's sea-goat, a fitting symbol for someone who is sure-footed (capable) and able to move with the flow (resourceful). She takes pride in creating a haven for people and providing for their needs. She often acts as a facilitator, assisting and helping prepare others before they take on a big project or other endeavor. The Brehon's three things that show a weak man - bitterness, hatred, and cowardice - are all ways people try to duck reality rather than dealing with it. Inner strength allows us to move forward, keeping in mind what is truly important; to forgive, as we refuse to take everything personally; and stay grounded as we face adversity. This Queen would agree, reminding us that no one gets to hide in a refuge forever.

Wipe Your Feet

From the Tabula Mundi Tarot, the Three of Disks; from the Words of the Brehon, "Three sons whom folly bears to anger:"

I will not let anyone walk through my mind with their dirty feet. 

—Mahatma Gandhi

The Three of Disks is titled 'Work' - it shows what happens when our will flows consistently in a stream of effort. We begin to see our progress, which is encouraging and can keep us going. It's like mowing grass when it's hot outside; seeing how nice it looks when we're halfway done can keep us on task. This card encourages us to maintain our momentum and stay focused. The three foolish sons of anger from the Brehon card suggest self-absorption that shows up as resentment, a refusal to listen, and ridicule. Some folks can't abide others outshining them in any way. Don't get distracted or drawn in by their antics. Hold on to that determination!

After the Storm

From the Tabula Mundi Tarot, the Six of Cups; from the Words of the Brehon, "Three drops of life:"

If you want to see the sunshine, you have to weather the storm.

—Frank Lane

The intense emotions of pain, fear and frustration have passed, and now calm, contented pleasure arrives. Is there anything more wonderful? Of course, the seas of life never stay calm forever, yet our job (as Pema Chodron would tell us) is to make room for all of it. The Brehon card lists the drops of life as a drop of blood, a teardrop, and a drop of sweat. They represent physical vitality and life; deep love and empathy; and the effort of perseverance in the pursuit of purpose. To think that we can live a human without any hardships is pure fantasy. However, we can widen our perspective when we are going through these challenges so that we can notice the good as well.

Noticed or Admired?

From the Tabula Mundi Tarot, the Two of Wands; from the Words of the Brehon, "The three things that constitute a buffoon:"

Men value things in three ways: as useful, as pleasant or sources of pleasure, and as excellent, or as intrinsically admirable or honorable.  —Mortimer Adler

Dominion is the keyword for the Two of Wands; having dominion suggests we are the master of our 'house.' In other words, we use our will with wisdom, purposefully taking charge of the way our lives unfold. The Ace gave us an idea, now this second wand allows us manifest something with it. Whether we squander it or use it beneficially, it will become a piece of our reality. The Brehon card states that buffoons blow out their cheeks, satchels, and bellies. This saying points out people who are full of self-importance, like to boast about what they have, and are gluttons. Such a squandering of power begs the question, "Do we want to be noticed or do we want to be admired?"

Power Play

From the Tabula Mundi Tarot, the Two of Swords; from the Words of the Brehon, "Three laughing stocks:"

The mental flexibility of the wise man permits him to keep an open mind and enables him to readjust himself whenever it becomes necessary for a change. —Malcolm X

The Two of Swords in the Thoth tradition represent a peace gain through mental flexibility. Like the moon, we need to be able to change our ideas when necessary. Cognitive elasticity enables us to enhance our problem solving, regulate our emotions, and improve our relationships because we see other viewpoints. The angry man, jealous man and miser in the Brehon card are ridiculed because they are trying to control what they can't and lose the power they have. The angry man loses control to his emotions (which now control him); the jealous man loses the ability to fully appreciate and enjoy what he has; the miser becomes what he fears - functionally destitute - because he refuses to use his resources. If we can master our attitudes, then we can master change.

Effort's Honey

This week I'll be using the Tabula Mundi Colores Arcus Tarot, created and self-published by M. M. Meleen; I'll also be using the Words of the Brehon Oracle, created and self-published by Olivia Wylie. Today's draws are the Nine of Disks and "The three things for which a friend is hated:"

It’s not so much how busy you are, but why you are busy. The bee is praised. The mosquito is swatted. —Mary Flannery O’Connor

Gain is the keyword for the Nine of Disks, yet it doesn't refer to some unexpected windfall. It is a consequence of diligent and dedicated work: a satisfying result that allows for a comfortable cushion. The effort and energy we put in will be reflected in the outcome, but only if our work is beneficial and intentional. As O'Connor notes, we can be busy without actually doing anything useful. The "Three things for which a friend is hated: trespassing, a distant manner and fecklessness" also hints at what makes friendships solid: respecting boundaries, being warm and friendly, and taking responsibility for one's actions and promises. Friendship has many rewards, but as the bees would tell us, it requires time and energy to thrive. 

Power Claimed

From the Tarot of the Cat People, the Empress; from the Insectorum Divinorum, Butterfly:

If you don’t get out there and define yourself, you’ll be quickly and inaccurately defined by others.

―Michelle Obama

The Empress may not have the authority of the Emperor, but she definitely has power. While he is concerned with control (law and structure), she's interested in flow (growth and sustenance). Hers is an inclusive approach; she rules with empathy and understanding, seeing all the parts and not just a conglomerate. Butterfly is given the keyword fragility: as a creature hypersensitive to the ecosystem, it is a symbol of the climate crisis. This insect reminds us that regardless of our station in life, we can still raise awareness when things have gone off the rails. As Alice Walker said, “The most common way people give up their power is by thinking they don’t have any.”