Places and People

From the Sasuraibito Tarot, the Four of Wands; from the Soul Cards, Protective Wing:

Your sacred space is where you can find yourself again and again.

~Joseph Campbell

          This Four of Wands reminds me of a greenhouse protecting whatever rests inside against the winter cold. So much happens in the outer world that we can't control or change; it helps to have a sacred place where we can center ourselves and rest. Whether a man-made structure or nature-made one, it is usually always a personally chosen one. The Protective Wing card implies that it's not just places that offer refuge, it's also people. Like the Snickers commercial that says "You're not you when you're hungry," it often applies when we're angry, lonely or tired. Having a wise friend who can guide us back to calm and sanity during chaotic or challenging times is an invaluable treasure. As Buddha told his followers: "Admirable friendship, admirable companionship, admirable camaraderie is actually the whole of the holy life." Truth and tenderness can go a long way in keeping us upright when we're listing to one side.