I use tarot and oracle cards as tools for reflection and contemplation. Rather than divining the future, they are a way for me to look more deeply at the "now."
"The goal isn't to arrive, but to meander, to saunter, to make your life a holy wandering." ~ Rami Shapiro

Monday, August 3, 2015

The Mines of Minds

From the Vision Quest Tarot, the Father of Water (King of Cups); from the Bird Cards, "Canary:"
          This fellow is described as someone who is perceptive, patient and sensitive. No wonder people seek him out for advice. Being able to listen deeply with empathy, then tap into intuitive insights for solutions is a rarity. Like the story of Jesus feeding the five thousand with just a basket of food, this King feeds his people too in a way. He is their calm harbor during storms; a person who loves without prejudice.
          The canary's cheery color and song represent optimism for the creators of this deck. Yet I also remember that it was used (up until 1987) as an early warning system for coal miners. Birds would be affected by the toxic gases (such as methane or carbon monoxide) before the men and would alert them to the unsafe conditions. Even today there is a term - "climate canary" - that refers to a species affected by environmental conditions before other animals and serves as an alarm. I am often the calm harbor for other people; they rely on me for emotional stability when their lives are in turmoil. But the canary suggests that too much time spent in these "mines" could have a detrimental effect. I need to walk in the green world and find renewal in the sunlight and fresh air. Such a dose of optimism can help balance out the darkness.

Posted by at
Labels: ,

11 comments:

  1. RoseAugust 3, 2015 at 9:45 AM

    Canaries are also known for their lovely songs. There is a lot of joy in this pairing and I'm imagining the little bird singing its heart out with the same kind of ease and abandon with which this Father of Water might share his own heart.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. thesycamoretreeAugust 3, 2015 at 9:52 AM

      Yes, that is a good point. Those who listen also need to share too! :)

      Delete
  2. EllenAugust 3, 2015 at 10:12 AM

    I can relate to the everlasting duties of this king. But since he is king he can easily take some time off to go to a quiet peaceful place and listen to the singing of the canaries.
    If there is one thing that has become quite clear these past few years is that I have to put myself first in order to be of any help for others
    I hope you have enough room in your life for Bev-time :D

    ReplyDelete
  3. Inner WhispersAugust 3, 2015 at 12:45 PM

    Love your description of this King as a calm harbor in a storm. To me, he looks like he's 'Gone Fishing ', highlighting that side of needing to refill your own cup, too. And maybe that's the distance that helps him keep his calm :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. thesycamoretreeAugust 3, 2015 at 1:07 PM

      Fishing sounds like a great way to refill one's cup! :) I can't think of a more meditative activity than watching the sun glint off the water while observing a bobbing cork.

      Delete
    2. EllenAugust 3, 2015 at 3:37 PM

      ha ha I think the fish won't agree with you!

      Delete
    3. thesycamoretreeAugust 3, 2015 at 4:01 PM

      They might if they're smart fish. :D

      Delete
  4. Bridgett MarieAugust 4, 2015 at 6:46 PM

    These two cards are so lovely. Do other people's daily draws ever speak to your heart as if they are meant for you? This man reminds me of my best friend. He was my calm in every storm, and I loved him dearly. Ironically, he was a miner too. He is no longer with me, but these two cards paired together, touched my heart as if it were him gently giving me a hug. Thank you! :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. thesycamoretreeAugust 4, 2015 at 6:56 PM

      I'm so glad these cards touched and warmed your heart BB! But yes, I often have other people's cards and posts seem as if they were meant for me. :)

      Delete
    2. Bridgett MarieAugust 5, 2015 at 2:21 PM

      :)

      Delete

Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)