Courage and Wisdom

From the Tabula Mundi Colores Tarot, the Six of Wands; from the Words of the Brehon Oracle, Three sons:

Efforts and courage are not enough without purpose and direction.

~John F. Kennedy

In the Six of Wands, the struggles and troubles we've been facing have been overcome. This is not some kind of lucky break that happened - we've had to wade through confusion, pain, and unhelpful influences. But a combination of strength and courage (lion) paired with vigilance and wisdom (owl) have helped us not only meet the challenge but grow and develop as well. The Three Sons are a nod to some of those unhelpful influences: people who are judgmental, contentious or sarcastic. We must be careful when choosing our allies; we need folks who will help find solutions rather than create more problems.

Stationary Stasis

From the Tabula Mundi Colores Tarot, the Hanged Man; from the Words of the Brehon, Three ill-bred sisters:

Surrender to what is. Say 'yes' to life — and see how life suddenly starts working for you rather than against you. ―Eckhart Tolle

As Odin discovered, acquiring wisdom can require sacrifice. For most of us, thankfully, we don't give up our right eye but our ideas about how things should be. As we hang in stationary stasis, we can fight reality or open and accept it, allowing our minds to download new concepts and approaches. As Alain de Botton encouraged, “Don't despair: despair suggests you are in total control and know what is coming. You don't - surrender to events with hope.” The Ill-bred Sisters represent a state of stagnation, refusing to budge mentally or physically. Change requires the courage to try new ideas and actions; it may be frightening, but it's better than steeping in fear.

Hiding and Suppressing

From the Tabula Mundi Colores Tarot, the Prince (Knight) of Cups; from the Words of the Brehon, the Three things that characterize a patient person:

What he feared most was that all this hiding had made it impossible for him to ever be found again.

― John Corey Whaley

With the emotional depths of water and the intellectual currents of air, the Prince of Cups has the ability to be an artistic soul or a philosopher. He can easily pick up on what is going on with other people, yet he often protectively hides his own emotions. In some social situations, hiding rather than unloading our feelings can be useful if not done all the time. However, emotional suppression actually increases the physical symptoms experienced with the emotional experience and can negatively affect our cognitive abilities. The Brehon triad lists the outer signs that show a person is patient. Even when trying to be forbearing, our 'tells' often show that we are gritting our teeth to hide an undercurrent of irritation. In the Prince's case, he might practice patience with his own feelings by learning how to express them appropriately and eventually understanding that they are natural and simply show that he's human.

Sanctuary

 From the Tabula Mundi Colores, the Ten of Cups; from the Words of the Brehon, Three ungentlemanly things:

Lighthouses don't fire cannons to call attention to their shining - they just shine.

—Dwight L. Moody

The Ten of Cups is described as satiety, the state of being fully satisfied. Like a river finally reaching the ocean, an emotional journey has come to an end. We can relax instead of being on constant alert, allowing ourselves to be content in the peace we've found. It won't last forever, but we need to appreciate and enjoy it while we can. The Brehon card warns of attention seekers - the interrupter, the chaos creator, and the dealer of discomfiture. Close the door, turn off the phone and social media; this time is necessary and sacred.

Finding the Why

From the Tabula Mundi Colores, the Universe; from the Words of the Brehon, the Three Deaths Better Than Life:

The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why.

 — Mark Twain

After trials and tribulations (some self-created), we have reached the pinnacle of this phase of our development. We have found our North star, what will guide us in our endeavors in the next chapter of our life. The Irish triad sounds a bit harsh - how could any death be better than life? But what it may be pointing at was that each fulfilled a purpose. The red salmon spawned to continue its species, and perhaps the fat pig fed a starving family. The horse thief's choices might serve as a lesson to others (like the Titanic). Even if it's not something awe-inspiring to the whole world, we all have a purpose. 

Win-Win

From the Tabula Mundi Colores Tarot, the Ten of Pentacles; from the Words of the Brehon Oracle, the Three Glories of Speech:

Wealth is but dung, useful only when spread about.

— Chinese Proverb

The Ten of Disks shows the harvest that is the result of effort and will exerted. At the moment, we are comfortable and content. Yet how do we keep that energy moving, so that it continues to flow freely? M.M. Meleen writes, "Give your wealth inner and outer purpose beyond accumulation." Rather than hoarding, we wisely invest our energy, time or money in others. The Brehon triad espouses the steadiness, wisdom and brevity of speech. That's good advice for those of us trying to guide someone else in the use of finances. Creating hope and opportunity, whether through advice or resources, is a win-win for both sides. 

Better Use

This week I'll be using the Tabula Mundi Colores Arcus Tarot, created and self-published by M. M. Meleen; I'll also be using the Words of the Brehon Oracle, created and self-published by Olivia Wylie. Today's draws are the Queen of Disks and 'Three things that make a wise man foolish:'

A great deal of energy is wasted in hating people, and I can honestly say I’ve no wish to expend such a precious resource on being outraged about anyone.

—Kevin McCloud

Known for her good heart, this Queen is industrious, resourceful and practical. She is a firm believer that people should have the basic necessities and tools to thrive. Like the goat above her, she'll climb any mountain to make that possible when it comes to her family or close circle of friends. The Words of the Brehon suggest that quarreling, anger and drunkenness can make a fool of a wise person. Even the Queen, as grounded as she is, can lose her clarity of mind when intoxicated by emotions or alcohol. Our time and energy deserve to be put to better use.

Selective Reality

From the Tarot of the Cat People, the Ten of Swords. From the Insectorum Divinorum, Parasitism:

It's not denial. I'm just selective about the reality I accept. ―Bill Watterson

Humans can be really smart, but we also can be extremely stubborn when it comes to clinging to certain ideas. We want to feel secure and safe, and we're often willing to put blinders on to keep from dealing with anything but our preferred reality. Parasitism is a relationship where one species benefits at the expense of its host (like the flea). Some folks make a living off of other people by trying to convince them to see life through a distorted lens. Yet there is misinformation (when people say something but don't have all the facts) and disinformation (when the intent is to mislead with false propaganda).  Reality can't be ignored forever; sooner or later we must wake up and view life with an open mind if we want to deal with it appropriately.

Each Moment

From the Tarot of the Cat People, the King of Wands; from the Insectorum Divinorum, the Ant:

Each moment is different and new. The antidote for the poison of boredom is simply to pay closer attention. There is always something happening, no matter how subtle. 

―Kimberly Brown

Look at that expression of pleasure on this cat's face! The seat of his King's throne never stays warm long, because he's a 'go and do' kind of guy. There's always excitement and changes in his wake, and this kitty gets to tag along for all of it. But unlike his knight, the King of Wands will finish what he starts. For most of us, the beginning of any project is the most fun, then our enthusiasm begins to wane. We may feel like the Ant, mired in worker mode, trudging through each task. But even the Ant would tell us there is much to see and experience if our mind is not stuck in the future where we'd rather be but in the present where we are.

Our Security?

From the Tarot of the Cat People, the Six of Swords; from the Insectorum Divinorum, the Queen:

Tradition becomes our security, and when the mind is secure it is in decay.

―Jiddu Krishnamurti

These swords seem to be balanced upright between rocks rather than embedded into the earth, implying ideas not grounded in fact. This traveler suggests she has seen through the traditions of her culture and clan. Long-held customs and practices make it easier to believe we're supposed to hate this group or do things only this way. But traditions aren't truth. It takes a strong will and a brave heart to separate from them, because it often means leaving behind people we've known a long time. The Queen bee represents heavy responsibilities, which fits with standing up for truth rather than tradition, yet it opens us to learning more about the world and all its inhabitants.

Joy or Sorrow

From the Tarot of the Cat People, the Five of Pentacles; from the Insectorum Divinorum, the Brood:

Weary at the close of day, wondering if tomorrow brings me joy or sorrow. —Leon Redbone

As much as we'd like to deny it, aging means a loss of some of the abilities we had in our youth. Yet as Albert Camus wrote, "To grow old is to pass from passion to compassion." Elders are not used up and worthless: we have much knowledge and wisdom to share with a world that desperately needs it. The Brood indicates a new generation, one that will leap into life with enthusiasm. But even the young will experience pain and setbacks. We older folks can show them how to find their interest and excitement in life again.

Unplug

From the Tarot of the Cat People, the Four of Swords; from the Insectorum Divinorum, Millipede:

 

Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes… Including you.

―Anne Lamott

This woman reminds me that sleeping or being splayed out on the couch is not the only way to rest our minds - play works too. In fact, it might even be better. Whether we choose art, a game, dancing, or any other form of play, such activities can move our mind from our worries to lighthearted joy. It's a break that can lower our stress and give our brains a chance to reboot. The Millipede, an arthropod with two legs on each body segment, eats mostly decaying leaves and other dead plant matter. This animal has been around since the Silurian period (over 400 million years ago), and so has been associated with the wisdom that comes from age and experience. Those who've been blessed to become elders would likely agree with George Bernard Shaw: “We don't stop playing because we grow old; We grow old because we stop playing.”

All the Right Words

From the Tarot of the Cat People, the King of Swords; from the Insectorum Divinorum, Butterfly:

You're going to come across people in your life who will say all the right words at all the right times. But in the end, it's always their actions you should judge them by. 

― Nicholas Sparks

The King of Swords has an analytical mind and is known for being an impartial judge when there are disagreements. With his hand extended, he offers to hear each side's story, but he expects them to back up their words with evidence. He knows eloquent, persuasive speech can hide a heap of wrongdoing. Butterfly represents fragility and susceptibility. While charismatic folks might ping our alert meter, sometimes those who look and sound pitiful might fly under our radar. The King would remind us that questioning doubt that leads to investigation is a useful tool in either case.

A Sense of Wholeness

This week I'll be using the Tarot of the Cat People, created by Karen Kuykendall and published by U.S. Games. I'll also be drawing from the Insectorum Divinorum, created and self-published by Esmeralda Rupp-Spangle. This morning's cards are the Sun and Scarab:

When you come together with your other half, you immediately experience a sense of wholeness and completeness. —Andrew Cohen

Remember the children's song, the Hokey Pokey? You start out putting just one body part in at a time, but eventually you "put your whole self in." Our society often tries to force us to show only parts of ourselves - restricting the way we act, speak or think - so that we fit their definition of 'appropriate.' But that's like asking a bird to fly with one wing. The Sun tells us to put our whole self in, which gives us the energy we need to throw ourselves fully into life, allowing us to experience joy and deal with any challenges. The Scarab implies self-motivation and tireless effort in order to get important work done. It takes effort to erase those tapes in our head from our culture and upbringing. The whole you is worth it.

Changing Times

From the Tarot of the Sidhe, Justice; from the Green Man Tree Oracle, Gorse (Onn):

We must adjust to changing times and still hold to unchanging principles. 

―Jimmy Carter

This fairy engages in quite a balancing act; if the wind or currents shift, she must adjust so that she doesn't fall. Thoth decks call this card Adjustment, which acknowledges that true justice cannot be set in concrete but must alter itself according to new knowledge and changing circumstances. As Carter said, we don't lose our principles just because we adjust our laws. Gorse (Onn) is a shrub that burns fast and bright. Its ogham, Onn, is derived from the Irish word fonn, meaning the sole of the foot and is connected to movement. No law or rule that is unjust should stand for long without being replaced with one that is fair to all. 

Viewing Our Options

From the Tarot of the Sidhe, Dancer Seven (Seven of Cups); from the Green Man Tree Oracle, Gooseberry (Iphin, Ifin):

Seduced by phantoms of the mind

Reality is left behind.

―Emily Carding

When we must make an exciting choice, all the options can look like a grand adventure. But if the decision is tough - say between radiation, surgery or chemotherapy - the options can all appear as frightening monsters. It's not just that we are optimists or pessimists, it is that we fail to accept that life is full of joy and pain, of gathering and loss. Yet we don't have to view our options through one lens but simply as it is.  Gooseberry (Ifin) has berries that are sweet, but it also has sharp thorns. One trait does not eliminate the other, just as life can be hard yet still full of goodness. There is no choice that won't at some point contain both. 

Sacrifice and Restoration

From the Tarot of the Sidhe, Dancer Five (Five of Cups); from the Green Man Tree Oracle, Elder (Ruis):

I let my guard down

And then you pulled the rug

I was getting kinda used to being someone you loved

―Lewis Capaldi

Watching a cherished relationship slowly fade or suddenly dissolve is to know grief and loss. Blame - whether of ourselves or another - may be used to try to make us feel better. Yet it would be more useful to feel our feelings without judgment or projections and let them dissipate. The Elder's ogham is Ruis, which means 'redness,' like the stems that hold its berries. It indicates intensity and passion, such as seen with anger or embarrassment. The companion book for this oracle offers the wisdom that "from sacrifice comes restoration." When we can grieve without clinging, we sacrifice the ego's desire for things to stay the same. In return, we find contentment and peace. 

Fulfilling Desires

From the Tarot of the Sidhe, Pan (Devil); from the Green Man Tree Oracle, Yew (Idho):

You only have to let the soft animal of your body

Love what it loves.

―Mary Oliver

Pan, the god of the wild, is known for his flute, his goat legs, and his insatiable pursuit of romantic liaisons. Carding gives him voice: "I am your lust and your fulfillment. I am the indulgence of desire." So, is giving in to our desires a good thing or not? It's not that our longing is wrong or immoral; satisfying it can bring joy and relaxation if there is no harm caused. But there is a flip side, as psychiatrist Mark Epstein explains: "Desire becomes addiction after you have that first little taste of something that comes so close to complete satisfaction…then you start chasing it. You want the perfection back. But you’re chasing something you’ve already lost." The Yew, known for its longevity, gives its ogham (Idho) connections with memory and age. When we choose to fulfill a desire, Yew asks us to ask ourselves if we will look back on this moment with fondness and happiness or shame and regret.  

A More Colorful Life

From the Tarot of the Sidhe, Temperance; from the Green Man Tree Oracle, Ash:

The aim of ideology is to eliminate ambiguity.

―Margaret Atwood

Temperance is a warning that we could be shifting to extremes in our ideas or actions. This slide is easy to make when we form a tight circle with people who think and behave as we do. Our attitudes seem normal when there is no one different with whom to compare them. As Gustave Le Bon explained, "they are always inclined to exaggerate the worth of their principles, and to push them to their extreme consequences." Nuin (Ash) is associated with part of a weaver's loom. Weaving in what is diverse allows for more wisdom and creativity, leading to a fuller, more colorful life.

We need diversity of thought in the world to face the new challenges.

―Tim Berners-Lee

Winter's Bite

From the Tarot of the Sidhe, Maker Five (Five of Pentacles); from the Green Man Oracle, Alder (Fearn):

Seasons come and seasons go

Much is lost when harsh winds blow

And in the midst of winter's sting

The Maker has forgotten spring

—Emily Carding

Many of us do not live with a constant 'winter's bite' as Carding calls it. Like the seasons, it is temporary. But when we're in the middle of a health or financial crisis, we can feel like we're stuck in this place forever. But the sunbeams coming over the mountains are a reminder that things will change. The wood of Alder (Fearn) was used for making shields, and thus this ogham is a symbol of protection. What are we protecting if we can't change the present circumstances? Marilyn Suttle wrote, "Feelings have more to do with the story you tell yourself than the facts." Alder suggests we shield ourselves from the stories we're weaving about a situation and focus only on the facts.

1 + 1 = 3

This week I'll be using the Tarot of the Sidhe, created by Emily Carding and published by Schiffer. I'll also be using the Green Man Tree Oracle, created by John Matthews and Will Worthington with Connections as its publisher. Today's draws are Warriors Three (Three of Wands) and Holly (Tinne):

What's interesting about collaborations is the possibility for one plus one to equal three.

―Rei Kawakubo

Three points can make a shape, a third leg can produce a stool that stands, and a couple can create a family. Three is the number that gives form to things, helping them expand beyond the two-dimensional. Carding writes, "A gate is opened in the east; A threefold sum of power increased." Cooperation and teamwork allow for talents and resources to be shared, giving rise to what was not possible before. The Holly's ogham - tinne - carries the meaning of 'ingot' or bar of metal. Erynn Rowan Laurie writes that it was associated with not only wealth but "with creativity, skill, and physical mastery of arts and craftsmanship." Just as Holly requires bees to produce its berries, we need knowledge and talent as well as financial backing to create something innovative. 

No Mulling, Please

From the Vision Quest Tarot, the Eight of Fire (Wands); from the Bird Cards, the Thrush:

A point of view can be a dangerous luxury when substituted for insight and understanding. 

―Marshall McLuhan

In the Thoth framework, the Eight of Wands is where Fire enters the realm of intellect and logic. It is the sudden penetration of a situation, the apprehension of the nature of things. Such insight sees through misunderstandings and confusion and allows for quick, decisive action. Wood Thrushes migrate more than 2,000 miles each way, between their summer breeding territories in the US and Canada to where they winter in Central America. The birds will fly for hundreds of miles at night, then stop for days or weeks to refuel. In a single night, it will climb to several thousand feet and cover two or even three hundred miles before morning. Like its great bursts of flight, the Thrush tells us to act on rather than mull over our insights. 

Real Security

From the Vision Quest Tarot, the Four of Earth (Pentacles); from the Ascension to Paradise Cards, the Hornbill:

If money is your hope for independence, you will never have it. The only real security that a man will have in this world is a reserve of knowledge, experience, and ability. ―Henry Ford

The Four of Earth (Pentacles) represents security, not from a tight grip on our money and possessions, but from the result of learning skills and working hard. Being diligent, capable and willing to add to our knowledge keeps us resilient when changes occur. Hornbills are known for having a long, down-curved bill which is frequently brightly colored and a horny casque (A hard structure resembling a helmet). Their 'helmet' suggests we protect our stability by continuing to update our knowledge and skill set rather than be complacent. 

A Bit Crumbly

From the Vision Quest Tarot, the Five of Earth (Pentacles); from the Bird Cards, Tropicbird:

Never let the future disturb you. You will meet it, if you have to, with the same weapons of reason which today arm you against the present. ― Marcus Aurelius

The Five of Earth indicates a change that brings disruption and imbalance after stability; it's no wonder why its keyword is insecurity. After a scan last week, I was alerted by my physician that I had osteoporosis in my femurs and hips - even though I am active, a nonsmoker and eat well. I immediately began to feel like that nibbled corn and broken basket. The Tropicbird, a seabird with elongated tail feathers, is built for life on the wing. Because their legs are located far back on their body, walking on land is difficult and forces them to use a shuffling gait. Its message is to use the resources we have (including logic) to do what we can. It might not change the facts, but it can give us some options to deal with them.

More Than Manners

From the Vision Quest Tarot, the Father of Water; from the Bird Cards, the Kingfisher:

Saying thank you is more than good manners. It is good spirituality.

- Alfred Painter

This King of Cups (Father of Water) pauses with his catch of the day - I imagine him offering his thanks. As one native man explained, "Each time I kill a fish destined for the table, I say a prayer of thanks, accompanied by an apology for interrupting and ending its current existence." This King/Father reminds us that a happy life has a foundation of gratitude rather than entitlement or ignorance. The Kingfisher, with its oversized head and beak, spends its day perched above calm ponds or rivers watching for a meal. When it sees a fish, it dives into the water after it. This bird encourages us to pause and see the good laid out all around us. Then we can take the plunge and say 'thank you' in acknowledgment.