Creating Mindfully

From the Greenwood Tarot, the Greenwoman (Empress):

At first glance, I thought this was the Greenman until I noticed the feminine face. I think it is important to realize these two cards are not literally male and female, but represent two sides of the same coin when it comes to nature and creation. The feminine side produces growth and abundance; the masculine side protects and provides limits. The head of the Uffington horse on the large, golden torc suggests the Greenwoman moves at a gallop. Plow under a field, ignore it for just a while, and upon your return it will be full of weeds, flowers and tree saplings. This force of nature is what supplies us with beauty and sustenance, but as the dragon represents, sometimes that force can be overwhelming and rampant (think of the kudzu vine). The Greenwoman encourages me to create in whatever ways my talents and passion lead me (indicated by the Sheila-na-gig on the cauldron). Yet I might keep in mind that perhaps one bowlful is all I should try to handle right now, otherwise I might accidentally spill something important along the way.

From the Pictish Oracle comes the "Arch:"

Eleven stones have been identified with an arch, each one slightly different from the others. Scholars have suggested this symbol might represent a bridge, rainbow or torc (neck ring). Although it resembles a horseshoe, there has been no evidence uncovered that Pictish horses were shod. Again the card and the tile reflect each other with a torc and a torc-like image. For Iron Age Celts, the golden neck ring identified the wearer as a person of high rank and status. The symbol of the Arch reminds me that to some extent, I enjoy self-sovereignty. The decisions I make and the actions I take are my responsibility. There is no higher authority to blame; the majority of the good and bad things I've experienced lead directly back to me. I need to be mindful of the consequences that might be produced by what I create. Such freedom always comes with the price tag of accountability.