Light and Birdsong

From the Tarot of the Hidden Realm, the Nine of Pentacles; from the Heart of Faerie Oracle, the Lady of Sorrows:

          This woman has a smile of contentment on her face as she listens to a robin singing its cheery song. Like the bird, she follows her own tune and has become self-reliant. The blackberries and rose hips on the vines suggest abundance, but she doesn't begrudge the thorns. They represent the challenges she's had to overcome in order to enjoy her independence. Though she may appreciate the company of others, she would never sacrifice her autonomy just to have a partner. She's perfectly satisfied with the life she's created and would rather have solitude than have to put up with subordination.
          The face of the Lady of Sorrows is the complete opposite of the first woman. Why is she full of sorrow? Froud describes her as a "hoarder of hurts and slights," someone who never forgives. Her garden lets in no light, no birdsong, and joy - that would only detract from her focus. The darkness of her inner life has completely absorbed the outer. I saw someone yesterday for whom I once held a deep resentment because of harm and injustices done. He looked old and frail, which was a shock. Though I will never think his actions were acceptable, I have found a way to accept the reality of what has happened and a way to live peacefully with it. I prefer light and birdsong far too much to let dark clouds cover my garden.