From the Somnia Tarot, Strength; from the Lojong for the Layperson deck, Slogan 58 (Don't be frivolous):
Strength is one of of those traits that requires a careful balance lest we get caught in its sharp teeth. It requires a measure courage, the willingness to say 'enough!' and stand up for what is right. Yet if not tempered, it can turn into a rage that mangles. It also requires compassion, which can turn into martyrdom or the role of victim (putting our head in the trap) if we don't tap into self-compassion. Slogan 58 - Don't be frivolous - cautions us to be aware of how we spend our time and energy. Just as the daylily bloom lasts only a day, we don't have unlimited time or energy. Unlike actual play or fun, frivolity is simply a distraction from reality that leaves us feeling restless and unsatisfied. Attention to those thoughts that are running through our mind can be a clue as to whether we're about to expend (or waste) those resources in ways that help or harm.
Thinking about the Strength card I heard the frightening command of my father so many years ago, "you want something to cry about, I'll give you something to cry about." I think we try to appear strong when there are many days we do need to have that self-compassion and to remind ourselves it is okay to cry and not have to be strong all the time.
ReplyDeleteI remember hearing that phrase a lot from stepdad #1. What a stupid thing to tell a kid who is hurting or afraid.
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