Source of Happiness

From the Shadowscapes Tarot, the Ten of Cups; from the Arthur Rackham Oracle, 'Imprudence:'

          A merman and his lover swirl and swim together in the ocean as the sun warms the waters. There are no huge sea castles or treasures in sight, yet they seem perfectly satisfied with life as it is. The emotional fulfillment suggested by this card fits well with an emailed quote by Mark Coleman I received this morning: "Nature teaches us simplicity and contentment, because in its presence we realize we need very little to be happy." Perhaps the people who are most at peace are those who recognize that 'stuff' is not what brings lasting joy, but open-hearted relationships with those around us. Imprudence is an illustration of Shakespeare's line, "Tis almost fairy time." A Midsummer's Night Dream includes a human child taken by the fairy queen. In this drawing, it appears pixies are interested in the unwatched baby in the cradle. The card warns that while emotional bliss is wonderful, it shouldn't make one forget one's duties or obligations.