From the Whimsical Tarot, the Wheel of Fortune; from the
Over the Moon Oracle, "Congratulations:"
Morrison uses the story of "The Flax" to represent the Wheel. Flax knew it was destined to be used for something important, so it was happy to be spun into thread and used for a linen tablecloth. But the tablecloth wore out after several years, and it was cut and used first for ladies' bloomers then for men's handkerchiefs. It wasn't too pleased in these roles, but finally it was employed by a book binder. It was content once again, but when the book fell apart after much handling, it was tossed in the fireplace. Flax was crestfallen until its ashes came to rest in the field where other flax plants grew. Then it realized its importance in fertilizing the soil for the next generation of plants. What a wonderful story to illustrate impermanence and change. It reminds me of a quote from Pema Chodron:
We think that the point is to pass the test or overcome the problem, but the truth is that things don't really get solved. They come together and they fall apart. Then they come together again and fall apart again. It's just like that. The healing comes from letting there be room for all of this to happen: room for grief, for relief, for misery, for joy.
The Congratulations (Nine of Diamonds) card shows a woman being admired and acknowledged by her friends for her gardening efforts. This is one of the joyful times on the Wheel when things are going well. It is a time to soak up the deliciousness of the moment, but without expectation or hope that it will last forever. Things will change. But that same philosophy will be a balm when times are tough, knowing they won't last forever either.
Great post...looking back or looking forward isn't always a bad thing, it helps us see the bigger picture.
ReplyDeleteThank you. :) I often get caught up in a chapter of my life and forget about the book.
DeleteWell this is a wake up call after my own positive full moon reading :D
ReplyDeleteThis is a strong encouragement to enjoy it while it lasts. And also not to be so afraid when I feel downhearted again. Everything always changes!
I like the flax story I've never heard of it before.
If I could just see change as an adventure instead of a setback, I'd be so much more flexible in adapting to it. But Chodron offers a great reminder that nothing ever is going to stay "just right," but neither will it stay "all wrong." I've never heard the flax tale before either, and thought it was perfect for this card. :)
DeleteI really like these two cards together with the gardening, earthy theme.
ReplyDeleteIve been so pleased to see you interpret the Over the Moon cards in the way that I see them. Not that anyone has to interpret them the way I see them but It helps reinforce that I put the right images in the right places.
I love the quote you shared. I will be seriously pondering coming together and falling apart. Sounds like a tarot spread in the making.
The Whimsical and OTM are definitely playing well together. :) I'm enjoying your deck so much; the images and the keywords you used have been very thoughtfully chosen in my opinion.
DeletePema Chodron is someone I consider wise and whom I have great respect for. :)