Objectivity

This week I'll be using the Shadowscapes book and deck set published by Llewellyn. The artwork is done by Stephanie Pui-Mun Law and the book is written by Barbara Moore. I'll also be drawing from a set of Cedar Runes made by AlaskaLaserMaid; The Serpent and the Eagle by Chris Travers will serve as an accompanying text. Today's draws are the King of Swords and Othila:

          This King is a Renaissance man (note the Vitruvian Man on this throne); he likes to know something about everything. Curiosity is his nature, and he has studied both the shadow sides and light sides of humans. He has found that their actions can be traced back to their thoughts. To turn a person or a kingdom in a different direction must begin with their ideas and understanding of reality. Though extremely intelligent and knowledgeable, he is wise enough to know much of his information has a foundation built on what his ancestors have learned (he has a skull footstool to keep him humble). Othila is often regarded as 'estate,' but it's root is more closely connected to ancestry. It makes me think of young children who have strong views at an early age; these ideas can usually be traced back to their parents or guardians. Even as adults, we are shaped by the character of our families. However, some of us decide (after an objective look from afar) to choose an alternative to our familial beliefs. They still influence us, but in this case they push us in an opposite direction. This King reminds me to question my beliefs and ideas no matter where they came from. Open-mindedness means I can consider someone else's view, even if it is in direct conflict with mine. Objectivity can then help me decide which side has more evidence to back it up.