A Mark of Existence

This week I'll be using the Herbcrafter's Tarot, created through the combined efforts of Joanna Powell Colbert and Latisha Guthrie. The set is published by U.S. Games. Paired with it will be the Green Wheel Oracle, created and self-published by Danielle Barlow. Today's draws are the Five of Water (Cups) and the Hearth Moon:

...a man’s suffering is similar to the behavior of gas. If a certain quantity of gas is pumped into an empty chamber, it will fill the chamber completely and evenly, no matter how big the chamber. Thus suffering completely fills the human soul and conscious mind, no matter whether the suffering is great or little.

—Viktor Frankl

          When humans experience a loss that results in suffering, we tend to handle it in several ways. We may build a mental monument to it, allowing it to become our self-identity. Others try to control it - making plans for revenge or attempting to ignore it through distracting or numbing behavior. All of these methods are typical, but not necessarily helpful in the long run. The Five of Water shows the herb Goldenseal, whose roots imply that our healing is buried within ourselves rather than something external. When we begin to relate to our pain with compassion, rather than self-pity, anger or suppression, we brew a tea to heal our heart and mind. The Hearth Moon suggests preparation, such as a cozy fire and a laden pantry, in the midst of winter. What can prepare us for deep emotional pain? While nothing can keep it from us, accepting impermanence as a natural part of life can be a start in being able to handle it better.

Sometimes when I’m asked to describe the Buddhist teachings, I say this: Everything is connected; nothing lasts; you are not alone. This is really just a restatement of the traditional Three Marks of Existence: non-self, impermanence, and suffering. —Lewis Richmond