Finding Something to be Grateful For

From the Via Tarot, the Nine of Cups; from the Nature's Pharmacy Deck, "Queen Anne's Lace:"

          The woman at the bottom of the Nine of Cups reminds me of Atlas; she holds up not only cups, but a body of water as well. The Thoth tradition labels this card "Happiness," and seeing her effort reminds me that contentment doesn't appear just because I stick my hand out waiting for it. The woman at the top with the downward-pointing sword underscores the importance of my thoughts in creating my own happiness. It is gray, chilly and rainy this morning. It is also the burial day of a man who was kind to me at a point in my life when I really needed a friend.
          Daucus carota is a type of wild carrot with finely divided, lacy leaves. Its flat cluster of small white flowers fold up as it ages, making it resemble a bird's nest. Like the cultivated carrot, it is a rich source of beta carotene. However the herb's root becomes too woody to consume unless it is harvested early. Such a time constraint suggests I need to actively look and hold on to beauty, joy and satisfaction when it is available. These good memories and a dose of gratitude can nurture and sustain me when those gray, rainy days come around.