Taking Refuge

From the Tarot of the Cat People, the Star; from the Insectorum Divinorum, the Mimic (Leaf Insects):

In the Cat People world, the Star Cat brings hope to those who need to find their feet again. The card seems to ask where we find refuge and encouragement when we're battered and worn out. Buddhists 'take refuge' in order to see with clarity, wisdom and compassion:

I take refuge in the Buddha, a role model for awakening.

I take refuge in the dharma, guideposts for the Way.

I take refuge in the sangha, a spiritual community of support.

A mentor, some guidelines and a support group can be good ways to find healing, comfort and guidance. Yet the Mimic (Leaf Insect) card is a caution to be discerning. These insects look incredibly like leaves (sometimes even with a fake bite mark) and sway when they move like a leaf blowing in the wind. They remind me of a story: A woman went to see a friend she had known for years to ask for guidance; afterward she was given a bill because her friend was now a 'certified' life coach. We need to make sure where we seek refuge is actually a safe haven.