Weighed Down

This week I'll be using the Da Vinci Enigma Tarot, created by Caitlin Matthews and published by Connections. Along with it, I'll be drawing from a self-published oracle created by Esmeralda Rupp-Spangle called the Insectorum Divinorum. Today's cards are Ten of Fire (Wands) and the Hive:

          In Da Vinci's sketch, men attempt to use a crane to hoist a cannon. The dimmi (literally 'tell me') asks: "What is weighing you down?" The burdens we carry may appear to be created by external sources, but in reality, pride, promises made, and 'shoulds' keep us invested in following through with them. So what's the difference between being dependable and being overly responsible? Psychologist Ellen Hendriksen lists four signs: taking on guilt for everything (even what we have no control over), avoiding conflict (don't risk upsetting anyone), feeling used (people become trained by our behavior), and feeling competent and needed (our self-worth is based on what we do). The Hive card shows a collective that works together for the benefit of all. Obviously, being overloaded does not fit this ideal. But what do we do about it? Hendriksen gives some suggestions: return responsibilities to whom they belong, accept all offers of help, and shift from saving others to launching others.