Actual Needs

From the Sheridan-Douglas Tarot, the Knave of Batons (Page of Wands); from the Pages of Shustah, the Candle:

          There is no shortage of energy or enthusiasm in the Knave of Batons. Judging by the staff of Hermes printed on his jumpsuit, he likely considers himself a messenger who can tell others how to build or reconstruct something to make it better. He's like most young idealists who don't yet have the maturity or experience to wisely apply their big plans. The Candle suggests illumination that leads to right action. 'Right,' in this usage, doesn't mean 'not wrong' but being able to see reality clearly and with a wide perspective. While the fire-breathing Knave has plenty of fiery light, it is created and nourished by his own ego. In other words, even if he really wants to be of benefit, what he wants is likely to get in the way of seeing what the actual needs truly are.

We have written many more words in our books than what few kind words we have spoken to the poor, lonely, and desperate. We have built so many more temples than orphanages.

—Ajahn Brahm

Fluctuation and Flow

From the Sheridan-Douglas Tarot, the Two of Coins; from the Pages of Shustah, the 'Candle:'

          Fluctuation and flow are two words that describe the human experience. If we are to look after our physical well-being, then we must be able to juggle and manage our resources (health, time, energy and finances). This young lass is adept at this task; notice how she keeps her eye on the coin in the air rather than the one firmly in her hand. It is tempting to second guess our decisions and actions rather than move our focus to something that actually needs our attention. "Keep your eye on the bird in the air, not the one in your hand," she encourages. The Candle represents illumination, and tied with the Two of Coins, suggests asking ourselves "How important is this?" The ship far out at sea may or may not dock at this gal's city. If she worries about it, she forgets to concentrate on carrying out what is necessary. As the saying goes, "Don't trouble trouble until trouble troubles you."

Water Flow, Knots in the Hose

From the Sheridan Douglas Tarot, the Eight of Wands:

Eight arrows fly through the air, heading downward to their target.  Besides the sharp points, I notice the fletching on the back of the arrows.  There are three fletches (vanes) made of matched half-feathers on each end.  The fletching gives stabilty to the arrow so that the arrow flies straight instead of tumbling end over end.  This card indicates that a creative project or challenge is nearing its completion.  The three fletches symbolize the preparation, initial action, and follow-through that have gotten me to this point.  Now my attention and effort must not waver as things come to a conclusion.

From the Pages of Shustah come the card "Candle:"

The candle is used to illuminate the darkness, and represents knowledge and wisdom.  I have a 150 ft. hose that I am using to water in the new shrubs and flowers I've planted.  Because of its length, it often gets kinks in it (stopping the water flow), and I have to pause and backtrack to find the knot and untangle it.  I've never had a challenge or a project yet that didn't have some sort of tangle; I must remember to be patient and shine a light on the problem in order to get things moving again.