Trumpets and Mountains

From the Tyldwick Tarot, Judgment; from the Antiquarian Lenormand, the Mountain:

What more will it take for you to realize that waking up is the very thing that will actually keep you alive, not to mention, sane? ―Ora Nadrich

On a table sits an altar that resembles the nook of a cathedral for statues. In it, a figure of Gabriel blows his horn to awaken those sleeping. If we believe the divine kingdom lies within, we will understand this as an inner awakening. But the two jack-in-the-boxes on either side of the altar indicate that what usually wakes up most humans is an unwanted and unexpected shock. While this may seem like a huge obstacle or challenge (the Lenormand Mountain), it can have the effect of dismantling frivolous concerns so that we can see clearly what is important and of value.

Agree to Disagree

From the Tyldwick Tarot, the Two of Cups; from the Antiquarian Lenormand, the Bear:

Our shared values define us more than our differences.

―John McCain

In a formal English garden, two huge flower containers sit on pedestals while separated by a triangular obelisk. Like the two planters, humans who would normally consider themselves friends or partners can elevate their opinions to the point where they divide themselves from each other. Yet the flowers are very similar, suggesting a commonality. Relationships between people usually occur because they share values, interests, or goals, but these seem to be forgotten. The Lenormand Bear implies strength, power and protection. It asks us if differing opinions are more important than protecting our relationship. Perhaps it is time to take Malcolm Forbes words to heart: "Diversity: the art of thinking independently together."

Places to Go

From the Tyldwick Tarot, the Two of Staves; from the Antiquarian Lenormand, Book:

Learning is not attained by chance, it must be sought for with ardor and diligence.

-Abigail Adams

The Two of Staves is illustrated with two spikes of a red hot poker (aka torch lily). One inflorescence (cluster of flowers) is in full bloom while another is just beginning. When we are enjoying the fruits of our efforts, it is tempting to think that extra will bring something even better. But 'more' of one thing often affects other things, like less time for enjoyment because of additional work or added worries and concerns. The Lenormand Book suggests learning and study, a wise choice before we make a decision we might regret. On the other hand, it could be as Dr. Seuss suggests: "The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you'll go."