Tangible Gifts

From the Victorian Fairy Tarot, the Queen of Autumn (Pentacles); from the Haindl Rune Oracle, "Jera:"

I was in the older, downtown part of our city a few weeks ago and spotted some folks setting up a trailer and tent in the Methodist church parking lot. Curious, I asked what was going on. These people were part of the Backyard Missions, a community outreach program. The trailer had a shower, so the homeless could have a chance to clean up (which had to feel good in our 96F degree heat). They also provided a sack lunch and haircuts to anyone who wanted a trim. Such a group embodies what the Queen of Autumn is all about - practical, resourceful and down-to-earth. While the homeless probably don't mind people who say "I'll pray for you," I imagine what they really appreciate is a full belly and a chance to wash off the sweat and grime.
Jera refers to the cycles of time, particularly the harvesting of crops. After months of hard work, tangible results are reaped. It's easy to understand why someone would make the effort of laboring in the fields when their survival is at stake. But the Queen of Autumn reminds me nurturing acts of kindness produce other fruits as well. It doesn't matter if the recipients refuse to acknowledge the gift; the real reward is the service itself.