Time Enough

From the Tarot of the Master, the Two of Coins; from the Paracelsus Oracle, Aquisitio:

The butterfly counts not months but moments and has time enough.

―Rabindranath Tagore

In the coins suit, Vacchetta depicts the Roman emperors sequentially (though leaving out a few). These two coins are placed on what appears to be an unguentaria, a perfumed oil bottle frequently left in tombs as offerings. The chronological emphasis in this suit implies that time is a great resource that we often overlook. Adding the Two of Coins meaning - balancing our options - it points to a need for assessing how we spend our time. Acquisitio (gain) speaks to how we spend many moments of our lives. We are constantly trying to buy contentment and joy by adding to our material possessions. But will all these things make a difference beyond the first few minutes of our pleasure?

Well Used

From the Tarot of the Master, the World; from the Paracelsus Oracle, Acquisitio (gain):

Never rest on your laurels. Nothing wilts faster than a laurel sat upon. 

—Percy Bysshe Shelley 

We've overcome our trepidation, opened our mind to new ideas, and put our best foot forward. Finally, we've accomplished what we've worked so long and hard on. It's time to pause and appreciate the fruits of our efforts. Acquisitio points out all the new talents and traits we've acquired along the way: courage, commitment, perseverance, flexibility, self-discipline and the humility to ask for help when we need guidance. Such 'acquisitions' are like new tools - the more we use them, the more developed they'll become. Don't leave those tools out in the rain to rust - there are more adventures ahead!

The Knowledge of True Importance

From the Tarot of the Master, the High Priestess; from the Paracelsus Oracle,

          The keyword for this tarot card is 'knowledge' and is symbolized by the open book. In Reading the Marseille Tarot, Jean-Michel David suggests a connection between La Papessa and Lectio Divina (Divine Reading), a practice of scriptural reading, reflection and prayer. This type of meditative reading requires receptiveness, patience and trust that insight will unfold. The purpose was not just a divine connection through a word or an idea but for a revelation that opened the heart. In my wheelhouse, this would relate to bodhicitta, an awakened heart and mind. Acquisitio means 'beneficial gain;' it is given the additional meaning of 'ties or bond.' Would you rather have more money than you know what to do with, or genuine friends to share your life with? When I can sink below the rush of daily activities and all my plans, I find that some things are more important than others.