Changes in Latitudes

From the Tarot of the Abyss, the Six of Swords; from the Nature Mandala Cards, Harmony:

With these changes in latitudes, changes in attitudes

Nothing remains quite the same

—Jimmy Buffett

The Six of Swords illustrates a change in our frame of mind. We may hold our ethics and values close, as this woman clings to her baby, but we recognize our attitude and opinions need restructuring. Yet unless we look at our part in the chaos and turmoil, we'll just rebuild another frame similar to the one before. By seeing the whole of the matter, as this woman does from her new vantage point, we can choose what will bring Harmony. Harmony doesn't mean we don't debate views or hold people accountable for their damaging words or actions. It just implies that we refuse to nourish the rage and hatred within us. As Zenju Earthlyn Manuel wrote, "The practice is to make companions of difference and harmony... We cannot take the teaching of harmony to serve the desire for sameness and comfort."

Get Up, Stand Up

From the Ellis Deck, the Seven of Rods; from the Brownies Oracle, Harmony:

Get up, stand up

Don't give up the fight.

–Bob Marley

It takes determination and courage to stand up to those who don't like change or new ideas. This is not based on machismo or any other movement with something to prove; it is the heart-led decision to stand one's ground because it is a choice of integrity. Harmony shows the Brownies in chorus practice. They are not required to sing alike, as it is the different vocal ranges that actually create their beautiful sounds. Likewise, ideas or practices that don't conform to the status quo aren't a threat when they simply enrich human lives. 

There are not more than five musical notes, yet the combinations of these five give rise to more melodies than can ever be heard. There are not more than five primary colours, yet in combination they produce more hues than can ever been seen. There are not more than five cardinal tastes, yet combinations of them yield more flavours than can ever be tasted.

–Sun Tzu 

Variety is Life

From the Alchemical Tarot Renewed, the Three of Vessels; from the Oracle of the Radiant Sun, Harmony:

          These three ladies carry their personality on their head - earth, air and fire. Where is water? It is formed by their relationship together. The Harmony card (Sun in Libra) explains how this diverse group got together. The Sun's clarity shines brightly on what they have in common (Libra), even though they may think and do things in very different ways. Whether the bond comes from a common cause, a shared hobby or a mutual support group, there is unity among diversity. In twelve step groups around the world, the first of the 12 Traditions reminds its members that "Our common welfare should come first; personal recovery depends upon unity." It is a reminder to remember the purpose of the group. Yet no group would be worth a lick of salt if everyone's perspective was exactly the same. Unity holds us together, but diversity is what help us see possibilities that 'purity of thought and action' would have passed right by.