But Then

From the Urban Tarot, the Five of Disks; from the Principles to Live By, Justice:

You think your pain and your heartbreak are unprecedented in the history of the world, but then you read. ― James Baldwin

We've all been there, when our health, home or livelihood has been affected. Whether it's the devastation of a tornado, the doctor's diagnosis, or the pink slip from our employer, it begins as a moment of numbness and disbelief. That soon morphs into fear or anger, accompanied by a feeling that this isn't fair or right; we shouldn't have to deal with such a burden. Yet the Justice tile is a reminder that we all deal with loss of all kinds; hardships come to everyone regardless of how knowledgeable, wealthy or spiritual they are. This counsel (and Baldwin's words) are not meant to be a condescending pat on the head, but a poke to awaken compassion for ourselves and everyone else. It's not easy being a human, but if we look beyond our current mindset, we'll likely find some support.