Rich Seedbed

This week I'll be using the Brady Tarot, created and self-published by Emi Brady with a companion booklet by Rachel Pollack. Along with it, I'll be drawing from the Wisdom of the Forest, a deck created and self-published by Jessica Purser. Today's draws are the Magician and Grow:

The Magician utilizes a combination of intellect, intention and the resources at hand to manifest what he desires. Our first attempt at something might fail dramatically, yet a second attempt might move us closer to our goal. The Grow card suggests that we learn from each experience, whether good or bad, rather than rigidly repeat our mistakes. (Crows never forget places, faces, or what happened with either.) Perhaps we don't have all the knowledge we need or we're not using our resources correctly. But if our mind and plan are flexible, we have a better chance of figuring things out. As Krishnan Venkatesh wrote, "Mistakes and failures make up the rich seedbed of self-reflection and improvement."

New Year, New Intentions

From the Primordial Tarot, the Mother (Empress); from the Wisdom of the Forest, Grow:

The Mother/Empress and Grow cards are an auspicious pair to draw for the first day of 2021. The Mother encourages us to create, nurture and love while Grow suggests that we not become complacent but continue to expand our heart and mind. In the words of Rumi, "Yesterday I was clever, so I wanted to change the world. Today I am wise, so I am changing myself."

In this new year,

may my daily intentions be 

the pursuit of wisdom, kindness and compassion.

May I choose to act with tolerance and patience,

realizing all have been shaped by life, sometimes harshly.

May I seek to be of service

rather than spend life chasing one pleasure after another.

May I seek to learn from others

and appreciate all the beautiful diversity in this world.

May I see my part in any harm or heartache;

rather than focusing the blame on others,

may I be willing to ask for forgiveness

making restitution wherever possible.

And above all,

may I never forget to tell those I know or meet,

you are loved,

you are loved,

you are loved.

Happy New Year