Expertise

From the Tarot of the Secret Forest, the Five of Swords; from the Faeries' Oracle, "He of the Fiery Sword:"

          A porcupine waddles past a pile of scat that marks the entrance of his burrow. In the animal kingdom, it is a way to mark territory. Since the Swords suit encompasses knowledge, ideas and communication, this card almost shouts, "This is my area of expertise. Don't even think about opening your mouth, because I will prove just how stupid you are." But He of the Fiery Sword shows up to represent the active side of spiritual justice and protection. He would allow everyone the chance to speak and express their ideas, regardless of their education. Why? Because justice based on anger is only revenge; justice based on arrogance is only humiliation. Even the most common person might have something important to say.

Wielding Swords with Care

  From the Tarot of the Secret Forest comes the Page of Cups:

This fellow is a gentle soul who would never intentionally hurt anyone.  Tender-hearted and soft-spoken, he gets pleasure from the kindnesses he does.  He enjoys making people smile and soothing any hurts in whatever way he can.  He doesn't keep tabs on what he's done and who may "owe" him - a sincere "thank you" will do.  His only vice is that because he is so sensitive, he can easily get his feelings hurt; he takes everything personally.  He could grow a thicker skin, but would that also change his sweet nature?

     From the Faeries' Oracle comes "He of the Fiery Sword:"

 

This fairy represents the yang principle - action, will, assertion.  Froud and MacBeth state that on this sword is written, "Draw me not without cause, nor return me without honor."  Here is a call for truth, justice, and protection, but the fine print reads, "must also be used with love and compassion."  This is the answer to my question above about the Page  - balancing tenderness with truth and kindness with a call to act.  It's not impossible, but does take some conscious thought behind it.