Curative Fantasy

From the Russian Lubok Tarot, the Page of Swords; from the Marseille Oracle, Fantasy:

A curative fantasy is a personal myth that we use to explain what we think is wrong with us and our lives and what we imagine is going to make it all better. Practice is characterized by a deep acceptance or surrender to life as it is.

—Barry Magid

As he imagines a bear about to attack, this Page tries to do a sword maneuver and barely misses his foot. In the realm of intellect and speech, he thinks he knows a lot and can express himself well, though reality tells a different tale. He's like the fellow in a debate whose words actually give the other side more ammunition. The Fantasy card hints at what is holding this young fellow back: he likes to fantasize about his successes more than he likes to learn or practice skills. Time to buckle down and study, young man.

Freedoms of Friendship

From the Deck of the Bastard, the Two of Cups; from the Marseille Oracle, "Fantasy:"

          My mom is coming into town today; I always look forward to her visits and our time together. My relationship with her has changed dramatically from what it was. Growing up, I had to share her with a stepfather and four step brothers and sisters. Between family and a full time teaching job, there wasn't any time left to spend with me. Our interactions were more along the line of "Clean your room and wash your clothes today." I was full of resentment toward her and felt cheated by our lack of relationship. Yet now that I am the mother and the wife, juggling roles and obligations, I understand. She was doing the best she could with what she had. And so the caduceus hovering over the couple in the Two of Cups feels like a relationship that may have scars but is definitely healing. The Fantasy card suggests allowing the imagination to float free. For me, it represents cutting loose the ropes of resentment from the past that held tight my relationship with my mom. It is a visual of the freedom of the friendship that is developing between us.