Inner Reserves

From the Vision Quest Tarot, the Nine of Fire (Wands); from the Bird Cards, Roller:

People reveal themselves completely only when they are thrown out of the customary conditions of their life, for only then do they have to fall back on their reserves.

―Leon Trotsky

          The Nine of Wands suggests we dig deep to find the strength and determination to push past our plateaus or impasses. Everyone has experienced adversity and struggles, which led us to new knowledge and additional skills (even if at times it was to learn how not to tackle something). These experiences deepen the reserves we have to draw from when times get tough again. The Roller is a colorful, crow-sized bird named for the acrobatic feats it performs during courtship or territorial displays. Its name brings to mind the phrase "roll with the punches," literally meaning to maneuver away from boxing blows to lessen the impact. In combination with the tarot card, it implies that instead of rigidly defending what we want, we choose our battles wisely according to what we can live with. Flexibility along with those reserves will lead to progress.