Intoxicating Focus

From the Sheridan-Douglas Tarot, Justice; from the Pages of Shustah, Scorpio:

What we need to strive for is not perfection, but balance.

—Ani DiFranco

What does balance look like in an individual life? At times our focus gets caught up in a project or crisis and loses track of everything else. Bills don't get paid, bodies don't get exercised or rested, and connections with others become frayed. Our world shrinks down to whatever focal point has intoxicated us. Justice looks like she wants to poke us with that big sword to get our attention. Scorpio tells us it is time to investigate and discover where our scales are out of balance, but without any pettiness. It might appear that someone or something else is to blame, but we ultimately have the final say in how we direct our attention.

Stay Calm and In Front of a Fan

From the Forest of Enchantment Tarot, the Huntsman (Justice); from the Mushroom Spirit Oracle, Lion's Mane:

It is essential that justice be done, and it is equally vital that justice not be confused with revenge, for the two are wholly different. —Oscar Aria

The Huntsman protects the forest and appears when something has upset the natural order of things. Is it ever anything but a human cause? People have plans and often don't care who or what they abuse and damage in order to be successful. But there is always a reverse in the pendulum swing, even though it rarely happens quickly. Climate change comes to mind (I'm in the purple zone):

Lion's Mane is a species of tooth fungus that tends to grow in a single clump with dangling spines. It is rich in vitamins and minerals and may help with inflammation. This fungus looks like a small fountain of water and represents calm. When there is injustice, it is tempting to act from a place of hatred and revenge. But first we must attend to the hurt and harm done, focusing on preventing it in the future.

Choice Makers

From Waking the Wild Spirit Tarot, Justice; from the Saltwater Reading Cards, Shark:

Fear, hatred and greed are unwise choice makers. —BK

Humans have it drilled into them from an early age to be successful, which in today's world means make a lot of money. It should be no surprise that we often let our honesty and ethics slip if it means a chunk a change. Whether it's people or the earth itself, we've lost our moral compass when it comes to wealth. Justic arrives to show us just how out of balance we are; unless we correct our course, we'll end up paying a heavy price that costs us dearly. Sharks use their nostrils to draw in water and detect dissolved scents, allowing them to locate prey by scent over long distances and in murky waters. They warn us to sniff out our motives and check our intentions before acting. It might also help to talk with a neutral person to see if we're rationalizing our plans. As Jordan Peterson said, "No one gets away with anything, ever, so take responsibility for your own life."

Balanced Order

From the Mary-El Tarot, Justice; from the OH Cards, Post and Line:

Truth is what imposed order, law, justice, morality and balance upon primordial chaos.

―Marie White

Justice is illustrated with Ma'at, the goddess of truth, justice, balance, and order. Things get out of balance because we think there some things/people more special and important than other things/people. But Ma'at asks us if the weight of our heart balances with the feather of Truth. Not our personal truth (opinions and beliefs), but the universal, capital 'T' one. Post and Line also brings up the idea of balance and adjustment - that line won't stay taut unless it's attached to another firmly grounded post. Likewise, justice must be balanced with mercy just as wisdom must be with compassion. 

Justice and Joy

From the Shadowlands Tarot, Justice; from the Brownie Wisdom deck, "Pleasure Bright:"

It is certain, in any case, that ignorance, allied with power, is the most ferocious enemy justice can have. ―James Baldwin

Justice relies on the triad of equity (freedom from bias or favoritism), equality (having the same rights and opportunities), and ethics (moral principles of conduct governing an individual or a group). If one of those legs is missing, it tips over. How did this happen? We can look to the past to see why we are where we are in the present (bird in the nest). If we want to know what's going to hatch in the future - if nothing changes - we look to the present. The Brownie's "Pleasure bright" card isn't a call for toxic positivity, but a call to check the condition of our hearts. Neither entitlement nor revenge will bring justice or joy. 

 

Eyes of Mercy

From the Fey Tarot, Justice; from the I Misteri Sibilla, the Jack of Hearts (the Lover):

Never forget that justice is what love looks like in public.

― Cornel West

This fey of Justice sees with her third eye; discerning insight rather than personal opinion is what she relies on. The ego is far from impartial, and it can be LOUD when it thinks it isn't getting a large enough piece of the pie. But it helps not to take this mental construct so seriously, as Denis Kelly explained: “We can smile and nod when our ego, like a slightly unhinged relative who means well, offers its endless array of opinions, judgments, and knee-jerk reactions.” Instead of remaining self-absorbed, the Jack of Hearts suggests we give our attention to others, seeing them through the eyes of compassion and kindness.

 

Changing Times

From the Tarot of the Sidhe, Justice; from the Green Man Tree Oracle, Gorse (Onn):

We must adjust to changing times and still hold to unchanging principles. 

―Jimmy Carter

This fairy engages in quite a balancing act; if the wind or currents shift, she must adjust so that she doesn't fall. Thoth decks call this card Adjustment, which acknowledges that true justice cannot be set in concrete but must alter itself according to new knowledge and changing circumstances. As Carter said, we don't lose our principles just because we adjust our laws. Gorse (Onn) is a shrub that burns fast and bright. Its ogham, Onn, is derived from the Irish word fonn, meaning the sole of the foot and is connected to movement. No law or rule that is unjust should stand for long without being replaced with one that is fair to all. 

Portion Size

This week I'll be using the Animal Totem Tarot, created by Eugene Smith with a companion book by Leeza Robertson; the set was published by Llewellyn. I'll also be using the Blum/Gern Rune Cards created by Ralph Blum and illustrated by Gabrielle Gern with publishing by Connections. Today's cards are Justice (Crane) and Perth/Perthro:

Life is never fair, and perhaps it is a good thing for most of us that it is not.

―Oscar Wilde

The crane exhibits a posture known as an arch display: wings held high and back arched, beak pointed toward the sky, and the red patch expanded and displayed prominently. He felt his territory was threatened and reacted. It would be nice if Justice truly meant that everything was perfectly balanced, 'fair and square.' But there are too many perspectives and sides with numerous players in every situation for such exactness. Yet we all seem to feel entitled to demand what we think our 'share' should be. The rune Perth/Perthro suggests outcomes that we can't foresee. However, if we are patient and attentive, what has been hidden will come to light. Perhaps if we sincerely listen to other viewpoints and attempt to stand where they do, we might see that our portion doesn't need to be nearly as big as we thought. 

From Surviving to Thriving

From the Anima Mundi Tarot, Justice; from the Nature's Pharmacy, Cranberry:

Whenever a separation is made between liberty and justice, neither, in my opinion is safe.

—Edmund Burke

Anyone who vows to act fairly, objectively and truthfully will need the courage and strength of the lion to stand their ground. The underlying stumbling block to justice is when one group believes their freedom and rights are infringed upon if another group is given civil rights. In other cases, liberties are given parameters (such as gun regulations) in order to protect the masses, and those who do not agree cry foul. Cranberries have been used as a food staple, medicine, and dye for centuries. The indigenous people of the Lenni Lenape saw them as a symbol of peace and goodwill. Justice ultimately seeks peace and goodwill; the rights of "life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness" include the well-being of all, allowing everyone not just to survive but to thrive. 

According to the Declaration, the extended quality of happiness — what we might call the good or flourishing life — is or should be a primary concern of government. That means it isn't just about my happiness, especially idiosyncratically defined, but about all citizens' happiness.

—Brent Strawn

Justice for All?

From the Dark Mansion Tarot, Justice; from Miss Mai's Victorian Oracle, Ship:

I pledge allegiance to my Flag and the Republic for which it stands, one nation, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. (original Pledge of Allegiance written in August 1892 by Francis Bellamy)

This staid and starchy judge reminds me of how important it is to know the people who are creating and enforcing 'justice.' That line, 'with liberty and justice for all,' doesn't ring true when one group's beliefs are imposed on a minority group. Personal freedoms can easily be eroded when the those in power feel their preferences are the right ones. The addition of 'under God' by Eisenhower underscores this narrow perspective. The Ship card suggests travel or expanding one's horizons. It implies that befriending people of different races, cultures, religions, etc. than our own can be helpful in widening our views; understanding how other people think and live can help develop clarity and compassion. 

Do the Right Thing

This week I'll be using the Slow Tarot, created by Lacey Bryant and published through Modern Eden Gallery. Paired with it will be the ROAR Oracle, created and self-published by MJ Cullinane. Today's draws are Balance (Justice) and Irene Sendler:

A monk asked Yun Men, “What are the teachings of a whole lifetime?”

Yun Men said, “An appropriate response.”

~Blue Cliff Record

Bryant writes that Balance (Justice) asks us to make a measured and deliberate response, understanding that the effects of our response will reverberate, rippling outward with external consequences. Our reactions are usually self-oriented to what we like, dislike or feel indifferent toward. That means our preferences and prejudices take the driver's seat instead of mercy, fairness and objectivity. But if we set aside our opinions, wishes, and emotions, what would the appropriate response be? Irene Sendler was a nurse who saved 2500 children as a part of the Polish Underground Resistance during WWII. She hated the term 'hero,' believing that people should be helped regardless of religion or nationality. Her actions were without desire for recognition but rather motivated by love and the aspiration to do the right thing. Justice should follow suit. 

One can not be just if one is not humane.

~Luc de Clapiers

Freedom for All

This week I'll be using the RainShadow Tarot, created and self-published by Claire Mack. I'll also be using the Liminal Spirits Oracle, created by Laura Tempest Zakroff and published by Llewellyn. Today's draws are Justice and Walnut:

I don’t believe you can stand for freedom for one group of people and deny it to others.

―Coretta Scott King

Anthropologist Ruth Benedict wrote that the purpose of her field was "to make the world safe for human differences." Benedict challenged exceptionalism, the view that a certain group was superior to another. She also promoted cultural relativism, the belief that one culture should not be evaluated using the norms and values of another. Justice involves restoring balance and fairness; rather than punishing differences, we can celebrate them. Walnut is a symbol of discernment as well as protection. It's leaves and hulls contain juglone, which is a natural herbicide that prevents the competition of other trees rooting beneath it. Walnut's message is to see beyond our bias, which shrinks our world rather than protects us. Then perhaps we can embrace the vision of Michelle Obama: "Let's invite one another in. Maybe then we can begin to fear less, to make fewer wrong assumptions, to let go of the biases and stereotypes that unnecessarily divide us. Maybe we can better embrace the ways we are the same."

But Then

From the Urban Tarot, the Five of Disks; from the Principles to Live By, Justice:

You think your pain and your heartbreak are unprecedented in the history of the world, but then you read. ― James Baldwin

We've all been there, when our health, home or livelihood has been affected. Whether it's the devastation of a tornado, the doctor's diagnosis, or the pink slip from our employer, it begins as a moment of numbness and disbelief. That soon morphs into fear or anger, accompanied by a feeling that this isn't fair or right; we shouldn't have to deal with such a burden. Yet the Justice tile is a reminder that we all deal with loss of all kinds; hardships come to everyone regardless of how knowledgeable, wealthy or spiritual they are. This counsel (and Baldwin's words) are not meant to be a condescending pat on the head, but a poke to awaken compassion for ourselves and everyone else. It's not easy being a human, but if we look beyond our current mindset, we'll likely find some support.

Traction

From the Tarot of the Master, Justice; from the Paracelsus Oracle, Laetitia:

This Justice's scales seem to be perfectly balanced; if someone were to ask me what was imbalanced, I'd begin a long list with the climate/environment and end with politics. But this Justice seems to look downward rather than outward - at me. I can get intoxicated about many issues, which may make me feel as if I'm doing something though I'm actually not. Justice would tell me to find some traction, and Laetitia ('joy') might help with that. The booklet that comes with this deck suggests this card refers to the sharing of ideas and discussion. I am reminded of the wise words of Margaret Mead: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed, citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”

Justice?

From the Tarot Lukumi, Justice; from the Diloggun Oracle, Oturupon (twelve mouths):

When slaves were forcibly brought to other lands, they attempted to guard their faith by syncretizing their gods with Catholic saints. Thus St. Barbara became a stand-in for Shango/Chango. Because of her faith, Barbara was locked in a tower and later beheaded by her father (who was subsequently killed by lightning). It's no wonder that people of Santeria made her story their own - both protectors were fighters against injustice. Yet Oturupon's wisdom can seem slightly contrary:

Ifa: The Orisha state that we must never raise problems or incite conflict. That we must take the time to be sure of our words even before we speak.

Proverb: Do not say the first thing that comes to your mind.

Is it justice to have to be silent or overly cautious to protect yourself? Not in my opinion, but I can see how in some cases that would be the smarter choice.

Energy Use

This week I'll be using the Stone Tarot, a self-published deck by Alison Stone. I may also dip into her book of tarot poems (Ordinary Magic), although it wasn't written as a companion book. The oracle I'll be using is the Buddhist Quote Cards, painted and published by Diana Altenburg. I have paired each card with a verse from the Dhammapada (a Buddhist text). Today's draws are Justice and a verse from chapter 32:

That stunning bright red in this Justice card surely speaks to how injustice and inequality creates a passionate reaction in people. When things are greatly imbalanced (and the voices of the affected go unheard), neighborhoods are burned, people are attacked, and chaos ensues. Yet Vanessa Zuisei Goddard offers another perspective: "Remind yourself that anger is just another form of energy; that you can use it to sustain the hard work of caring for whom or what you love." Such energy can be channeled into productive and creative purposes rather than just used destructively. The verse from the Dhammapada is a reminder that it takes honest self-reflection and open-mindedness to achieve Justice's objectivity; recognizing our own ignorance and prejudice is required:

As a smith does with silver, the wise person gradually, bit by bit, moment by moment, removes impurities from herself. 

 

Readied Position

From the Morgan Greer Tarot, Justice; from the Celtic Book of the Dead, the Wheel:

In all the years that I've used this deck, I don't think I've ever noticed Justice's foot peeking out from the bottom of her robe. It reminds me of the paintings and statues of  Green Tara that show one foot loosed from the lotus position - ready to take compassionate, wise action. We can have eons of intellectual discussions about what is fair, equitable and just, but nothing changes until these ideas are put into practice. The Wheel, with its emphasis on changing course, underscores this understanding. In the words of Barack Obama, "Change will not come if we wait for some other person or some other time. We are the ones we've been waiting for. We are the change that we seek."

A Needed Anchor

From the Tarrochi Celtici, Arduinna (Justice); from the Art of Asia Oracle, "Old Buddhist Monk" by Kim Hong-do:

Justice is depicted as Arduinna, a Gallo-Roman goddess of the Ardennes Forest and region. Depicted as a huntress riding a boar, she protected the forests and mountains much like the Roman goddess Diana. Justice's primary purpose is to protect the rights of beings and promote fairness and equality; punishment is only a secondary function. It seems that lately the latter has overrun the former in our country. I've been reading a book called High Conflict by Amanda Ripley (currently free if you have a Kindle app). High conflict is all-consuming and addictive, having an us-versus-them mentality that never leads to progress or understanding. It thrives on heated (and reheated) emotions. Hong-do's painting is paired with a quote by Thich Nhat Hanh:

Feelings come and go like clouds in a windy sky. Conscious breathing is my anchor. 

While justice needs compassion, it is crippled by unchecked emotion. For fairness and equality to be present, it needs objectivity and clarity.

The Sharper the Bite

This week I'll be using the Prisma Visions Tarot, created and self-published by James R. Eads; the companion booklet was written by Katherine Tombs. The oracle I'll be using alongside it is the Secret Language of Color Cards, created by Inna Segal and published by Beyond Worlds. Today's draws are Justice and Auburn:

As we move through this beautiful and troubled world, may we vow to be a beacon of peace, a fearless carrier of respect and lovingkindness for all life, a teller of truth , a voice for justice, a protector of those who are vulnerable or targeted. May the power of wisdom, integrity and compassion be our guide.

~Jack Kornfield

Katherine Tombs writes, "The sharper the bite, the sharper the sword." This card brings home to me what Thich Nhat Hanh emphasized over and over - peace and justice begin in my own heart and move outward. There is no way I can carry a boiling cauldron of hatred in my heart and make wise choices or choose skillful actions. If I attempt to, I'll only create a cycle of perpetual problems and destructive chaos. Auburn reminds me to place all my senses in the here and now; doing so allows me to be an objective observer of my body and mind. I can catch the tension in my body and those rage-filled thoughts before they goad me into action. Calmness can bring clarity, and clarity can produce choices that heal and help.

Clear Vision of Truth

From the Mary-El Tarot, Justice; from the OH Cards, Hook/Owe:

Your vision will become clear only when you look into your own heart. Who looks outside, dreams. Who looks inside, awakes. ~Carl Jung

White states in the companion book that Truth is what brought order, justice, balance and morality to what was chaos. But, as she explains, Truth only arrives through "seeing things the way they really are, the inside vision matching the reality of the outside vision." That's the tough part, because my ego will always tell me that my version is the right one. This twist can easily be seen when I feel like I've been wronged or harmed. However the Hook and Owe cards give me a warning to be cautious in my judgment. I might want to hook the person who hurt me, hanging them like a piece of meat for all to see. But what actually happens is that my mind gets hooked, constantly regurgitating the past instead of living my life in the present. What do I owe? Forgiveness that allows me to let go of my bitterness and reclaim my freedom. It doesn't okay their actions but simply recognizes that clinging to my pain only exacerbates my suffering.