Boundaries and Integrity

From the Idiosyncradeck, the Seven of Arrows (Wands); from the Mixed Emotions Cards, Fulfilled:

          A high wall protects against an onslaught of arrows. It represents maintaining our boundaries and holding our ground as we face passive-aggressive humor, those who judge without facts, and people who like to feel superior to others. Yes, there are those who have wisdom we should heed, but in this case, it is simply about guarding ourselves against those who don't have our best interests at heart. The Fulfillment card reminds me there is a big difference between self-esteem and 'other-esteem,' which has a way of shaping our thoughts and behaviors. As Mel Schwartz explains, "Authentic self-esteem is not dependent upon others or things external to us. Such self-esteem is a manifestation of our relationship with ourselves." Do my actions flow from integrity, guided by ethics? Fulfillment comes when I can look in the mirror and see a face I respect.

Happiness is not a goal. It’s a by-product of a life well-lived.

~Eleanor Roosevelt