Influencers

From the Nigel Jackson Tarot, the Pope; from the Wolf Pack, Carelessness:

The trouble with having an open mind, of course, is that people will insist on coming along and trying to put things in it.

― Terry Pratchett

Ask any preacher, politician or professor and they will likely agree that those who are able to influence a person's ideas hold a great power. Such a person will attempt to convince their listener that their words are truth and therefore beneficial. Add some eloquence and charisma to the mix and it might be hard for us to question their philosophy. Yet Carelessness warns that we should not get so caught up in the flush of exciting ideas that we forget to see other explanations or alternatives. As one priest told me, "There's no need to leave your mind outside the door." I'd bet that phrase "lean not on your own understanding" was probably written by one of those influencers.

Can I Get a Do-Over?

From the Norse Tarot, the Five of Wands; from the Wolf Pack, "Carelessness:"

       The rods used in this competitive struggle meet to form a star/pentacle, the symbol for the human's physical existence. I think it is in the nature of people to want to do things their way (translated: the right way), so opposition is likely. But can we present our viewpoints and reasoning behind them without drawing blood? Such a discussion is a hallmark of maturity and can encourage choosing the best possible solution or plan of action.
       The wolf is so intent on digging up an old kill, he's oblivious to the mountain lion coming up the hill. The irony is that he's eating to survive, but because he's not alert, he's liable to be killed. It is easy to lose sight of what's important when we're too focused on the wrong things. Both these cards remind me that getting my way doesn't always mean I'll get the result I was hoping for.