Not Okay

This week I'll be using the Idiosyncradeck Tarot, created and self-published by Jessica Bott. Along with it, I'll be drawing from the Mixed Emotions Cards, created by Petra Martin with Kris Wiltse (Illustrator) and published by Heron Lake Press. Today's draws are the Five of Stones and Loving:

I am not okay

I'm barely gettin' by

I'm losin' track of days

And losin' sleep at night

I am not okay

I'm hangin' on the rails

So if I say I'm fine

Just know I learned to hide it well

―Jelly Roll

This stone has been eroded by flood, wind and precipitation to the point that just a gust of wind could topple it. It's the same way with humans, when we get hit time and time again with unexpected events, hardship and emotional challenges. We barely have time to get to our feet when we get knocked down again. When sincere folks ask how we're coping, do we answer "Fine"? We all know what that stands for: f#cked up, insecure, neurotic and emotional. The Loving card encourages us to drop the tough act and be honest, including being tender to our self. Doing so would allow others to reach behind the wall we've erected and offer support.