Prosocial Benefits

From the Tabula Mundi Tarot, the Six of Disks; from the Universe Cards, Galaxy Collision:

          The Thoth meaning for the Six of Disks is material success. It arises after experiencing both gains and loss and leads to a wiser viewpoint when it comes to material concerns. Things aren't taken for granted, yet losses aren't perceived as a crushing defeat either. Galaxy Collision happens when a larger galaxy absorbs a smaller one or when two of similar size merge due to the gravitational attraction of both. The term 'collision' is a bit of a misnomer since stars and planets are spaced so far apart that an actual crash between them is rare. This process happens over the course of millions of years and changes the structure of both. Together, both of these cards reminded me of research published in The Journal of Personality and Social Psychology that showed prosocial people (those interested and engaged in the well-being of others) are more successful than selfish people and tend to have better psychological well-being, physical health, and relationships. It seems altruism does change us, but in wonderful ways. 

Minute Changes vs. Collapse

This week I'll be using the Tabula Mundi Tarot (Nox et Lux edition) with its companion book Book M: Liber Mundi; both were self-published by M.M. Meleen. I'll pair with it the Universe Cards, a set created by Kay Stopforth and published by Thorsons. Today's draws are Adjustment (Temperance) and 'Galaxy Collision:'

          "I am the power of equilibration," declares this unusual ice skater. Meleen explains that "Balance is not standing still; it is the constant movement of minute adjustment." It reminds me of the conflict between traditionalists (who want everything to stay the same) and idealists (who pursue noble principles). Because of the constant of change, the traditionalists can't stay stuck, and because the movement of one part can sometimes drastically change the whole, idealists can't find perfection. But the moderates can step in each camp when necessary to keep everything moving without a crash.
          According to Stopforth, galaxies can be so close together that their gravitational pulls can affect both. Over millions of years, the immense forces generated can change their shape; one galaxy may even swallow the other in order to reach a point of equilibrium. Conflict, while uncomfortable, doesn't have to end in disaster if balance and equanimity can be maintained. That which is truly important must not get lost in heat of the conflict.

Whenever you're in conflict with someone, there is one factor that can make the difference between damaging your relationship and deepening it. That factor is attitude. 

~William James