Releasing the Reins

From the Transformational Tarot, the Queen of Wands; from the Celtic Book of the Dead, the 'Island of the Eagle:'

          The Queen of Wands is brewing up some magic, which in her case is the ability to sway people to her way of thinking and convince them to follow her into action. While she likes to start crusades and campaigns about concerns dear to her heart, she's content to follow rather than lead once they build up steam and get going. She's not afraid of being the center of attention (she rather enjoys it), but she has other movements to support and encourage. Thus she doesn't focus solely on one cause, but several (knowing that she's left the leadership in capable hands). The island the Celtic travelers arrive at today is that of the Eagle, a bird known for skimming the waters of sea or lake and grabbing fish from the surface. Because they appeared to be taking a dip in the water, the Celts considered this great bird a symbol of renewal and transformation. The booklet asks, "Are you tired of life because you never refresh yourself?" Perhaps the Queen knows what she's doing by handing the reins over to another instead of trying to micromanage everything.

Let's Sleep On It

From the Transformational Tarot, the King of Swords; from the Celtic Book of the Dead, the Island of the Eagle:

          This King has defeated his opponent and now prepares to either grant him mercy or take his life. The chess piece in the background is an indication of this man's intellect and strategic disposition. He is an unbiased judge because he can clearly connect the causes and effects that have led to this moment. His judgment is not based on how his decision will affect him personally. As William James pointed out, "A great many people think they are thinking when they are really rearranging their prejudices." His choice will be based on how it will affect the whole. The high-flying eagle seems a good fit for this discerning King. The Celtic voyagers were physically and mentally depleted when they arrived on the Island of the Eagle. There the magnificent bird showed them a lake that would refresh and renew them (a nod to Psalm 103:5 - "your youth is renewed like the eagle"). Together these cards remind me that it is nearly impossible to use good judgment when I am tired and mentally overwhelmed. It's no surprise that researchers have found that regardless of stimulants used, it was impossible for people to make good decisions until they had a good night's sleep. No wonder we have the phrase, "Let's sleep on it."