Reaching for the Sun

From the Druidcraft Tarot, the Ace of Wands; from the Druid Plant Oracle, 'Heather:'

 Creativity can be seen as a state of natural flow... When you know how to tap fully into this open, creative flow, its beneficial qualities can extend to any area of your life.

~ Geshe Tenzin Wangyal

          This Ace is full of symbology: the birch tree for new beginnings, the stag for the element of fire, and the sun for burning enthusiasm and energy. The hard part is not in receiving the inspiration, but in putting it in action. The companion book speaks of initiative: "taking responsibility for an idea and putting it into practice, with optimism and a firm belief in its successful outcome." Rinpoche Wangyal (from the quote above) offers three suggestions for doing so:

• Clear your inner obstacles - work on the blocks that are within (a negative self-image).
• Open to your potential - cultivate an awareness of spaciousness and unlimited possibilities (mediation can help).
• Nurture a sense of warmth - warmth is the place from which love, compassion, and kindness arise (make it a habit to consciously look for small joys).

Heather is a plant that can grow just about anywhere that has sun. Bees love it and often use it for making honey. This plant is a good reminder to celebrate what is rather than whine or be resentful about what isn't. Taking in that kind of mental sunshine will give us something worthwhile to work with and celebrate.