Acting with Courage

From the Wild Unknown Tarot, the Princess (Page) of Wands; from the Pictish Oracle, the Pictish Beast:

One isn't necessarily born with courage, but one is born with potential.

― Maya Angelou

          The Daughter of Wands learns through discovery and exploration, which requires her to act with confidence and enthusiasm. Old habits and unfounded fears that have been learned must be met with courage and decisive action. While such assertiveness isn't always a guarantee that what she finds will bring her joy, it can bring knowledge. In this card, the wand is in flower - not yet pollinated or bearing fruit. But she still has time for more encounters and revelations to unfold. The Pictish Beast likely represents a mythical animal associated with the sea. In all of its 24 appearances on stones, it is shown in a favorable light; it possibly symbolized a benevolent power that could calm rough seas or fill the nets of fishermen. Learning acts in the same powerful way. If we can put aside the prejudice of our fears and let go of the preference of our habits, we may discover something life changing. Along this same line of thought, I am currently reading Caste:The Origins of Our Discontents by journalist Isabel Wilkerson. It is definitely not a feel-good book, but it is eye-opening and recommended. I wish it were required reading for all elected officials.