80% Behavior

From the PetraK Tarot, the Knight (King) of Discs; from the Astrodice, Mercury/Sagittarius/6th House:

Personal finance is only 20% head knowledge. It’s 80% behavior!

– Dave Ramsey

This Knight (King) of Discs reminds me of the saying "keep your head above water." This fellow, who has enough earth to restrain his fire, knows how to manage finances when things are good or bad. Not a person to take risks, he is known for being prudent and practical. He concentrates on the tasks that need his attention and avoids unnecessary distractions. Besides communication, Mercury is also known for problem solving, which works well with the curiosity and desire to learn of Sagittarius. The 6th House deals with work and well-being. Together with the Knight of Discs, they suggest that we don't assume we're managing our finances and health wisely but to investigate the evidence. We need to be able to keep our heads up when waters rise.

McSteamy

From the PetraK Tarot, the Prince (Knight) of Cups; from the Astrodice, Saturn/Sagittarius/8th House:

But your vision will become clear only when you can look into your own heart. Without, everything seems discordant; only within does it coalesce into unity. Who looks outside dreams; who looks inside awakes. ~Carl Jung

The steamy Prince of Cups is a combination of fiery passion and watery, emotional depths - the airy part of water. He is clever and open-minded as well as sensitive, creating a personality that is both introspective and expansive.  The Prince is learning how to shape his desires into reality. The 8th House, which represents what our relationships can bring us and how we can get the most out of them, is tempered with the curiosity and honesty of Sagittarius. It is further limited by the structure and discipline of Saturn. As Jung writes, we should not mistake our outer projections for reality; instead, we should dive within and explore the root of our desires to discover what will give our life a deeper meaning.

The Next Generation

From the PetraK Tarot, the Ten of Discs; from the Astrodice, Uranus/Taurus/4th House:

Legacy is not what I did for myself. It's what I'm doing for the next generation.

—Vitor Belfort

If we charted the way we spent our time, energy and money for a month, what would it look like? How we live and expend these resources will create the legacy we will leave for those who come behind us. We might like to judge ourselves by our intentions, but others will base their assessment on our actions. Perhaps following the Dalai Lama's advice would be wise: if you can't help, at least don't harm. Uranus suggests that, although we all have long to-do lists, we breakthrough our busyness for altruistic purposes (though Taurus reminds us not to neglect things that are actually necessary). The 4th House tells us to begin with home and family and work outward. 

Less "You"

From the PetraK Tarot, the Seven of Cups; from the Astrodice, Sun/Capricorn/4th House:

The less 'you' there is, the greater the level of awareness. ~Michael H. Brooks

What is missing from this card? A person. Selfing (selfishness, self-centeredness, self-referencing) creates blinders and filters that separate us from reality, distorting the decisions we make. The best choice for emotional fulfillment often gets overlooked by the options that appear to be more fun, might improve social standing or could be the easiest way to success. When the real world impinges on our fantasy, the veil lifts briefly. If we can take our "I" out of the equation, if only briefly, we might make saner choices. In the Astrodice roll, the vitality and drive of the Sun merges with the patience and hard work of Capricorn. However, the 4th House suggests these efforts be made toward our home and family rather than seeking contentment outside of our domestic refuge.

Don't Add Fuel

From the PetraK Tarot, the Queen of Cups; from the Astrodice, South Node/Virgo/3rd House:

Real equanimity isn’t indifference. It’s the capacity to be present with your whole being and not add fuel to the fire. —Jack Kornfield

People love to be around this attentive queen because her calm demeanor has a way of rubbing off on whomever she's around. It's not that she doesn't get angry, sad or worried - she does, but she doesn't identify her life as an emotion. She would tell us uncomfortable feelings are simply energetic messengers that show up because we are in opposition to the way things are. South Node suggests that we have emotional habits that make us feel secure. Yet by using Virgo's focus, we can resist letting our emotions override reality when we relate to others (3rd House).

Move on Down the Road

From the PetraK Tarot, the Five of Wands; from the Astrodice, Mercury/Gemini/1st House:

A perfectly straight shot with a big club is a fluke.

—Jack Nicklaus

When we want to get something accomplished as efficiently as possible, multiple obstacles or distractions will likely appear. Particularly when this is a joint venture, there always seem to be a variety of ideas about how things should proceed. Rather than getting frustrated and angry, we can remember our goal or purpose. Mercury's skill in thinking and communicating logically combines with Gemini's ability to be versatile and branch out. The 1st House (how others see us and how we relate to our world) suggests that instead of trying to hold the conductor's baton, we listen and discuss things openly as a member of the orchestra. If everyone feels heard, things are likely to move on down the road a little bit quicker.

Seasons

This week I'll be using the PetraK Tarot, created by Petra Reiter-Köck and published by Piatnik. I'll be pairing with this deck a roll from the Astrodice, a kit produced by The Wessex Astrologer Ltd. Today's card and roll are the Ace of Discs and South Node/Aries/6th House:

Our character is basically a composite of our habits. 

—Stephen Covey

This disc hovers between a tree with green leaves and a branch of autumn leaves. Our life is made of changing seasons, when some things in our physical world need more of our attention than others. Home repairs, more sleep, a closer eye on our spending, or addressing health concerns are all part of our own changing seasons. The South Node points out how our experiences have shaped and formed our habits and patterns. The 6th House focuses on daily routines, including our health and wellness. Together with Aries, these dice suggest we make an assertive and energetic effort to change any unhealthy tendencies so that we enjoy a season of well-being rather than tolerate one of discontent and discomfort.

Delightful Season

From the PetraK Tarot, the Nine of Wands; from the Astrodice, Mercury/Gemini/8th House:

Eight burned out matches and one aglow on an orange ball makes me think of George Harrison singing that while it's been a long, cold lonely winter, the sun is on its way. I've often heard that a balance of gratitude and tenacity can serve a person in good stead when things are tough while remembering change is coming. Getting older means dealing with a body that begins to wear down, but I've decided to make the words of poet Sandra Cisneros my motto as I age: "I am a woman of a delightful season." The Mercury/Gemini/8th House roll suggests a conversation about the cycles of life and their meaning. Today is a good day for pondering them, but with a mind and heart full of appreciation.

Not All or Nothing

From the PetraK Tarot, the Four of Discs; from the Astrodice, Mercury/Gemini/7th House:

Be moderate in prosperity, prudent in adversity. 

~Periander

In this painting, the lower, smaller discs seem constricted by some outer covering. Yet the top two discs are larger and unencumbered, producing a bright light or energy. We all get squeezed by circumstances from time to time, whether physically (energy and health), financially or time-wise. We may barely have enough 'shine' to keep ourselves upright and afloat. But when we have some extra shine to spare, we may remember others who are currently treading water and practice kindness rather than restraint. The Astrodice roll implies a merging of communication, sociability and relationships. While we all have preferences with regard to introversion or extroversion, moderation might serve us well.

I’m both an introvert and extrovert. I love people, but I need to be alone. I’ll go out to meet people, but it has an expiration because I have to recharge. If I don’t find the valuable alone time I need to recharge, I cannot be my highest self.

~Denzel Washington

Relax, Release, Resist Nothing

From the PetraK Tarot, the Two of Swords; from the Astrodice, Mars/Gemini/6th House:

We can approach our lives as an experiment. In the next moment, in the next hour, we could choose to stop, to slow down, to be still for a few seconds. We could experiment with interrupting the usual chain reaction and not spin off in the usual way.

—Pema Chodron

The swords lying on their sides and the pastel colors of this card suggest this person took Chodron's words (above) to heart. To pause for a few moments without feeding the mind allows the aggressive feeling that we must choose NOW to pass. When a modicum of peace can wedge itself within us, we realize the only real danger is making an impulsive decision. Even when dealing with difficult choices, such clarity can help us see that the easier choice might be the worst one down the line. The Sixth House from the Astrodice roll involves health or work - two areas where discernment needs to be exercised. Yet the fiery nature of Mars and the restlessness of Gemini might push us into a spin again. Relax, release, resist nothing. Let the mud settle, the water clear and the right choice will be apparent.

Steeping

From the PetraK Tarot, the Knight (King) of Cups; from the Astrodice, Southern Node/Pisces/9th House:

This Knight/King seems to be steeping in his cup like a tea bag, reminding me of Eleanor Roosevelt's words: "A woman is like a tea bag. You never know how strong it is until it’s in hot water." So don't let the kind, compassionate gaze of this fellow fool you - he's both capable and composed no matter what hits the fan. He knows how to express and control his own emotions as well as interpret, understand, and respond appropriately to the emotions of others. The South Node represents the natural skills or gifts that we were born with which help with our purpose in life. Pisces tends toward sensitivity, spirituality and the arts. The Ninth House is an exploration into philosophy, psychology and spirituality - what will shape our ideals and ethics. These are the areas that can help ground us, allowing us to 'steep' without losing our head or values. 

Real Love

From the PetraK Tarot, the Lovers; from the Astrodice, Jupiter/Libra/3rd House:

Real love ought to be more like a tree and less like a flower.

― Mya Robarts

The multiple pairs of people and animals remind me of the phases of love. In the beginning, there is lust and infatuation. Time spent together seems to shrink one's world down to two rather than expand it. But if it has the ability to mature and develop, it becomes something different and wonderful - a deep friendship as well. As Leon Uris put it: "Love can’t mature in one room. It has to come out of the full sharing of everything: joys, aspirations, downfalls, all of it. That’s the only real path to love." The keywords for the Astrodice might be joy-spreader/diplomacy/communication. In the evolution of love, we learn to communicate our thoughts and feelings with respect for the other rather than intimidation or manipulation. It is heartfelt sharing rather than withholding that bonds us and creates joy and contentment.

Fast Flowing

From the PetraK Tarot, the Five of Discs; from the Astrodice, Saturn/Libra/12th House:

The sands of time, money, and energy flow quickly through two discs while three other discs attempt to stem the flow. We are burning through our days with nothing left over, creating worry and stress. It is interesting that this Five of Discs represents things in the physical realm, while the Astrodice roll shows the 12th House that rules all things not in the material realm (the unconscious, our deepest thoughts and emotions). Is there something hidden in the unconscious that is driving this behavior? Saturn suggests we meet our challenges with prudence and perseverance, while Libra instructs us to correct imbalances. What is the solution? Pay attention to what is going on now (including what is running through our mind) and don't let the choke collar of unfounded thoughts or intense emotions jerk us around.

Little Sprouts

This week I'll be using the PetraK Tarot, created by Petra Reiter-Köck and published by Piatnik. The oracle I'll be using this week is the AstroDice, created by Wessex Astrologer Ltd. It consists of three dice: one for Planets, one for Signs and one for Houses. From the PetraK Tarot, the Hierophant; from the Astrodice, Saturn/Capricorn/Sixth House:

Like the little sprout this Hierophant holds, I think we are all born with something inside that wants to grow and compels us to nurture it. Each sprout is unique to each person; some find its fertilizer in creativity, physical activities or intellectual pursuits, while others have spiritual leanings. Regardless of the path, its full development usually requires a mentor. Saturn is concerned with perseverance in the face of challenges while Capricorn encourages order and responsibility. The Sixth House refers to daily routines and habits. Together with the Hierophant, they suggest a need for commitment, patience and willingness to learn from another. Whatever we are trying to grow will require daily maintenance and care. 

You don't know what your abilities are until you make a full commitment to developing them.

~Carol S. Dweck

Teetering Collection

From the PetraK Tarot, the Ten of Cups; from the Astrodice, Jupiter-Cancer-7th House:

Happiness, not in another place but this place...not for another hour, but this hour.

– Walt Whitman

          I had an unexpected, wonderful day this past week, full of love and laughter. It was a perfect Ten of Cups day, filling me with contentment and happiness. But like the teetering collection of cups stacked up on Petra's card, such days aren't meant to be fixed. A lot of causes and conditions come together to make those kind of days, and no cause or condition remains unchanging. Jupiter in Cancer suggests wisdom that comes from our emotional interactions, and in the 7th House, a mutual nurturing and nourishing in our relationships. The conundrum this draw and roll represents is in the way humans think. In the words of Milan Kundera: "Human time does not turn in a circle; it runs ahead in a straight line. That is why man cannot be happy: [the human idea of] happiness is the longing for repetition." Emotional maturity requires that we enjoy our perfect days and remember them fondly, but avoid comparing them with the present moment. Wishing we were somewhere else does not bring contentment or acceptance to where we currently find our feet.

Flourishing Together

From the PetraK Tarot, the Six of Discs (Pentacles); from the Astrodice, Moon-Scorpio-6th House:

Humanity as a whole flourishes best when we all flourish together.

—Ven. Bhikkhu Bodhi

          The term 'trickle-down' economics originated as a joke by Will Rogers to criticize policies designed to favor the wealthy and privileged while framed as good for the average citizen. The truth is that we all lean on each other. Just let the shipping and waste industries go on strike for a couple of months and see what happens to the giant corporations. If anyone has enjoyed success, it is only through the unseen hard work of others that supported it. The Moon in Scorpio suggests intense emotional reactions and insecurity that can feel overwhelming. Yet the 11th House - the collective or House of Companions - is a reminder that there is emotional support available. But added to the Six of Discs, the question becomes: "Do we in turn reach out to others and ask them what they need, or are we too wrapped up in ourselves?"

I Want It That Way

From the PetraK Tarot, the Eight of Swords; from the Astrodice, Mercury-Sagittarius-12th House:

I want it that way. ~Backstreet Boys

          Four swords that are trying to move upward are blocked by four swords pointing downward. But is there really nowhere else to go? It seems that by backing off, the other swords could go in other directions; perhaps with enough distance, they could go around and get back on track. How easy it is for our minds to convince us that we're trapped when actually we're only blocked from going the way we want to go. Our rigid opinions, preferences and prejudices make it seem like this is the only alternative. (e.g. "Masks must still be worn even if vaccinated." "But it's Spring, and I'm tired of wearing them!") Mercury in Sagittarius is a fiery force to be reckoned with and often emphatic about their views. Yet they are open to learning. The 12th House represents the unconscious, suggesting there's a clue to why we cling rabidly to our ideas if we look at our deeper motives. Seeing the fears that drive us may take some of the power and energy away from them, allowing us to see with a wider perspective.

Being Recognized

From the PetraK Tarot, the Lovers; from the Astrodice, Pluto-Gemini-10th House:

I once had a dream in which someone asked me, "Why do we love people?" I answered, "Because they recognize us." I think this is true. ~Sharon Salzberg

          While the Two of Cups implies a partnership that may be emotional, intellectual, physical or financial, the Lovers point to a deeper, spiritual commitment. Such love reaches beyond what is external and temporary and sees instead what is on the inside. As Salzberg writes, "When someone recognizes a basic goodness within us, beyond our habits and conditioning, when someone recognizes who we fundamentally are, it is the most important thing that can happen to us, and we respond with great love." The 7th House emphasizes relationships; Gemini prefers a partner that stimulates the mind and has varied interests. But Pluto represents that unseen pothole that throws off the balance in relationships. What happens when one person loses their job or their physical or mental health? Such changes can test the depths of unions, the willingness to sit with the other's pain without running or hiding. Yet when we recognize that we could easily be the one needing care, such challenges can produce inner strength and a love that promotes dignity.

At the Core

From the PetraK Tarot, the Two of Cups; from the Astrodice, Mars-Taurus-8th House:

Core values are principles or beliefs that you hold most dear and that are of central importance in your life. When everything around you is changing, when the world is difficult to understand, and when you are riding up and down the emotion roller-coaster, your core values will always be there for you.

~Daniel Riley

          The cups in Petra's painting are connected, yet each has enough space left over for filling with its own selection. The best partnership, in my opinion, is that which shares a meaningful part of life but allows each individual to develop and learn on their own. Such a pair will have different experiences and thus different perspectives, giving rise to the saying, "Two heads are better than one." The Mars-Taurus combination is a pair of opposites - the fearlessness and impulsiveness of Mars bumps into the practical conservative nature of Taurus. Yet the 8th House (philosophy and meaning of life) offers a table where both can comfortably sit. Any partnership, no matter how differently each person may think or do things, can stay connected if they share similar core values.

Feeling Tones

From the PetraK Tarot, the Knight of Cups; from the AstroDice, South Node-Scorpio-10th House:

Feeling tones can be pleasant, unpleasant or neutral. It is the feeling tone keeps us hooked into our conditioning behavior of craving and aversion. –Alpesh Parikh

          The Knight of Cups in this depiction literally lives inside his feelings, filtering all thoughts through his emotions. He understands that we are in a relationship with every person, place or thing we come into contact with. Yet before there is a relationship, there is a 'feeling tone' - an immediate reaction to what we experience. Stimuli that are pleasant, we want more of; those that are unpleasant, we try to avoid or get rid of; and those that are neutral we simply ignore. The South Node, Scorpio and 10th House combination suggests that patterns have been created in the past that affect not only our emotional intensity, but also our reputation. When we are rewarded by a reaction (whether it involves getting, getting rid of, or disregarding), we tend to repeat that action until it becomes a habitual pattern. How others might describe us (hothead, peacemaker, judgmental, open-minded, etc.) might give us a clue about whether we should work on changing some of those ingrained patterns.

You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself in any direction you choose. –Dr. Seuss