Eyes Wide Open

From the Tarot of Pagan Cats, the Hierophant; from the oracle Cat Wisdom, "Take a  Closer Look:"

          When I first saw the older cat surrounded by the coin, cup, knife and wand, I thought I had drawn the Magician this morning. But I suppose it makes sense to have this teacher or mentor surrounded by these items. Any group leader will make sure relationships are developed to maintain a cohesive unit through a feeling of belonging (Cups). He will teach certain ideas and beliefs the group upholds (Swords). He inspires and motivates his students to act in certain ways (Wands). And the group is generally funded by the individuals that make it up (Pentacles). Yet the Cat Wisdom card suggests that what looks shiny on the outside may only be a veneer hiding something rotten underneath. Leaders often allow their egos to trample on the trust their followers give them. Maybe not intentionally at first, but power does have a way of twisting minds and hearts. I am reminded that being part of a group doesn't mean I have to swallow whole everything on their menu.