Way of Integrity

From the Forest of Enchantment Tarot, the Two of Challenges (Swords); from the Mushroom Spirit Oracle, Chaga:

You enter the forest at the darkest point, where there is no path. Where there is a a way or path, it is someone else's path. ―Joseph Campbell

A young man pauses for clarity in front of a magic mirror that reminds him of who he is an what he thinks is important. For too long he has been the person other people wanted and expected him to be, but now a decision must be made that could change all of that and expose his true self. Will he follow the way of integrity or remain attached to the desires and demands of others? Chaga is a fungus that resembles burnt charcoal and is often found growing on birch trees. These mushrooms are one of the best sources of antioxidants; they can also stimulate the immune system, reduce inflammation and increase physical endurance. Chaga reminds us that people pleasing - while sometimes an easier path - is not the path of wholeness. As Martha Beck explains, "Because our true nature is serious about restoring us to wholeness, it hauls out the one tool that reliably gets our attention: suffering."