Motion is Lotion

From the Tarot of the Master, the Knight of Coins; from the Paracelsus Oracle, Via:

Daily dependability is not always exciting or epic, but it is heroic.

—Aaron Grube

The Knight of Coins may not be as flashy as his cousins, but if you want to make advancements, he's your guy. He'll plan a clear path to the goal, gather resources, then work steadily and diligently. He's more of a tortoise than a hare, but he'll get the job done right. Via means 'way,' and suggests change and movement. The fellow in the card looks like he's getting some rest, but if he doesn't get up soon, he's liable to be "stove-up." This phrase for being sore or stiff is actually the past tense of the verb stave. To stave in a wooden boat is to smash a hole in its side and incapacitate it. Thus, stove-up is feeling sidelined by achiness. The Knight would agree with the physical therapist's maxim: "motion is lotion." Once the task has begun, the mind resets and focuses on the goal.

Keep an Eye Out

From the Tarot of the Cat People, the Knight of Pentacles; from the Insectorum Divinorum, Hemiptera:

Slow and steady wins the race, not the person who wants to climb the whole stairs in one stride. 

—Michael B. Johnson

The Knight of Pentacles would agree with Aesop: consistent, patient effort is usually more successful than quick, erratic bursts. The Knight is very deliberate in his approach, keeping his eye on the task at hand while avoiding useless distractions. Come hell or high water, he intends to get the job done. Hemiptera is an order of insects known as 'true bugs.' They are distinguished from other insects by their specialized piercing-sucking mouthparts and partially hardened forewings. These insects suggest we slow down our rush to the finish line and pay attention to details. As John Wooden said, "It's the little details that are vital. Little things make big things happen."

Diligence

From the Stone Tarot, the Amazon (Knight) of Pentacles; from the Buddhist Quote Cards, Dhammapada 20:276:

Gardens are not made by singing 'Oh, how beautiful!' and sitting in the shade.

― Rudyard Kipling

Whether it's TV ads or social media, we've been groomed to think doing most anything should be easy. Working full time but want a college degree? No problem, just sign up for our online classes and we'll send you a degree. Want to plant a lush vegetable garden? Buy our tiller and you won't even break a sweat. The Amazon/Knight of Pentacles knows that nothing comes to fruition without a diligent effort - many involved steps come before reaching our goals. The Dhammapada quote reads: "It is up to you to make strong effort; buddhas merely tell you how." The intellectual pleasure we get from talking and planning things won't compare to the enjoyment of actually physically producing it, even with the dedicated work it requires.

Taking Care of Business

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 draws are the Knight of Pentacles and Sowilo:

What I do today is important, because I am exchanging a day of my life for it. When tomorrow comes, this day will be gone forever, leaving something in its place I have traded for it. 

― Heartsill Wilson

Prairie dogs are named for their habitat and warning calls, which sound similar to a dog's bark. The extensive underground colonies they dig can be recognized by the mounded holes at the burrow entrances, usually 30 to 50 per acre. These mounds serve as lookout points and as a way to keep water from entering the burrows. This Knight of Pentacles reminds us to be good stewards, to protect and care for what we hold dear. Sowilo ("sun") represents positive energy and drive, encouraging us to grow and thrive. While the Knight emphasizes what is external, Sowilo points to the wholeness of our lives, bringing to mind Rumer Godden's words: "...everyone is a house with four rooms, a physical, a mental, an emotional, and a spiritual. Most of us tend to live in one room most of the time but unless we go into every room every day, even if only to keep it aired, we are not a complete person."

No Evading

From the Brady Tarot, the Son of Roots (Knight of Pentacles); from the Citadel, the Runaway:

You cannot escape the responsibility of tomorrow by evading it today. 

—Abraham Lincoln

Brady describes this Knight/Son as someone who loses himself in the task at hand. Like the mole, he is not content with checking the surface of things; he's going to tunnel under and make sure all is well. He knows that it's the simple things we overlook that can turn into big things later if we don't attend to them. The Runaway is an expert at ducking and avoiding needs and responsibilities. But that unpaid bill, toothache, or lack of care for things we own can mushroom into a larger problem. We may think we're getting a pass, but responsibility has a way of finding us. 

Back from Cousin Camp at my mom's where we celebrated her 88th birthday. (Me and mom are the shorties in the middle.)

Innovative Roles

This week I'll be using the Victorian Romantic Tarot, created by Alex Ukolov and Karen Mahony with Magic Realist Press as publisher. I will also be drawing from Dreaming in Color: The Luman Deck, created and self-published by Mindy Hope Sommers. Today's draws are the Knight of Pentacles and Emotion:

Innovation thrives where doubt meets courage.

― Marion Bekoe

The Knight of Pentacles must at times think outside the box when trying to bring what is envisioned into reality. Britomart was a young woman who fell in love with a knight seen in a crystal ball; Merlin informed her that he was in trouble. Being an innovator, Britomart disguised herself as a knight (turns out, she's very skilled and strong) and goes in search of Artegall. Along the way, she frees maidens from their captors but eventually helps her soon-to-be husband. Emotion asks us how we feel when people step out of their defined roles. But aren't these roles simply constructed by humans (often with an agenda) rather than prescribed by nature? At some point, need may force us all to step into a new role. Yet it can remind us that we are more whole and diversified than what we've often been told.

That Which is Far

From the Legacy of the Divine, the Knight of Coins; from the Tea Leaf Reading Cards, Horse:

How poor are they that have not patience! What wound did ever heal but by degrees?

―William Shakespeare

The Knight of Coins is normally thought of as a reliable, diligent fellow who does things with care. But with horses on both cards today, it seems that they should be the focus of the reading. Horse represents freedom of movement, but on the Knight card two unharnessed horses are locked in battle. It appears that any plans for action are stymied for the moment. With a Coins card, this could suggest physical health and the need for recovery. We may find ourselves in a caretaking role for someone who is injured or ill, or we might be the one who needs rest to recuperate. One of the Knight's helpful traits is patience; if we find ourselves in one of these situations, he might offer us a Swahili proverb: "“Patience attracts happiness; it brings near that which is far.”

Zoom at Your Own Risk

From the Tarot of Durer, the Knight of Pentacles; from the Philosopher's Stone Deck, Trial/Assessment:

Total certainty can mean there's no assessment of things. 

—Chris Ofili

The detail-oriented Knight of Pentacles pairs well with the Stone card symbolizing trial/assessment. He doesn't mind pausing in the middle of his work because it gives him a chance to assess what's been done so far. He's concerned with the two Es: efficacy (are his actions are producing the desired effect) and efficiency (is he is accomplishing this with a wise rather than wasteful use of resources). Because of three floods, our yard has picked up a lot of weeds. In an effort to keep them from spreading without resorting to chemicals, I mow with a bag attachment to collect the seed heads. I confess I have been in a hurry at times and zoomed up, down and around in order to finish quickly. Unfortunately, I forgot to attach the bag catcher, so I had to mow everything again. Slowing down and pausing to check on things is a must for efficiency and efficacy. 

Measure Twice

From the Dark Mansion Tarot, the Knight of Pentacles; from Miss Mai's Victorian Oracle, Telescope:

Where you stand determines what you see and what you do not see; it determines also the angle you see it from; a change in where you stand changes everything.

―Steve de Shazer

Both the Knight of Pentacles and the Telescope suggest a change in our perspective. Rather than just being in a hurry to get things done, it is important for us to see the lay of the land. We take a wide perspective, seeing all that is about us, not just where we happen to be standing. We see different angles and associations, including how things are interconnected. We take a long perspective, considering not just possibilities, but how our actions might impact the future in negative ways. As the saying goes, "measure twice, cut once."

Nature's Timetable

This week I'll be using the Mary-El Tarot, created by Marie White and published by Schiffer. I'll be pairing it with the OH Cards, created by Ely Raman and Joe Schlichter and published by Eos Enterprises. Today's cards are the Knight of Disks and the Sun:

Observe due measure, for right timing is in all things the most important factor. 

―Hesiod

The Knight of Disks represents Air in the element of Earth, reminding me of the importance of wind driven pollination in bearing fruit. Besides being reliable and resourceful, he is also creative when it comes to improving material matters. But if this Knight is so hardworking, why is he resting in the shade of a large tree? The Sun from the OH cards suggest this is the heat of the day. As the poet and farmer Hesiod stated, balance and timing play a huge part in the success of what we're doing. Watering plants at noon when evaporation is at its peak does very little good (and wastes water). And working outdoors in such heat is an invitation for heat stroke. Sometimes we must work on nature's timetable and not our own. 

Don't Take Mussolini's Advice

From the Greenwood Tarot, the Knight of Stones (Pentacles); from the Rune Cards, Beaver (Ior):

We become strong, I feel, when we have no friends upon whom to lean, or to look to for moral guidance. ~Benito Mussolini

Potter's Knight of Stones is represented by a wolf and the Pictish rendition of a wolf; in Gaelic, wolf is Mac Tire, meaning "Earth's Son." The Celts thought of the wolf as a guardian and guide (Cormac - the Irish King - was said to have been reared by wolves). As much as we like to think of ourselves as independent and self-sufficient, we all need guidance and support at various points in our life. Otherwise, we may end up like Mussolini who followed no one's suggestions but his own and plunged Italy and most of Europe into darkness. True mentors don't tell us right the path to take but hold up a light so that we can see what lies down each path. The rune Ior is represented by a beaver, an animal that spends its time on land and in water. It suggests fluidity, an ease and ability to move between different thoughts and responses. Rather than being locked into one mode, we are able to choose what is most skillful and beneficial in each situation.

Killed by Duty

From the Prisma Visons Tarot, the Knight of Pentacles; from the Secret Language of Color Cards, Pink:

Love can flourish only as long as it is free and spontaneous; it tends to be killed by the thought of duty. 

― Bertrand Russell

The Knight of Pentacles understands that all living things require sustenance, and he is a work horse when it comes to providing what they all need. Yet he can be so focused on cultivating and obtaining, he forgets to appreciate the beauty and magic all around him. As he trudges though life, he's begun to value things and people according to their usefulness. Einstein suggested that love was a better teacher and master than duty - it gladdens and lightens the heart as we do our work, keeping us from seeing it simply as an obligation. Pink's message follows this line of thought, encouraging us to "let love in." 

Intentions for Planting

This week I'll be using the Llewellyn Tarot, created by Anna-Marie Ferguson and published by Llewellyn. I'll also be using the Beasts of Albion, an oracle deck created by Miranda Gray and published by Aquarian. Today's draws are the Knight of Pentacles and the Otter:

When you assess your own life, consider it with the eye of a gardener. Underneath the surface lies rich, fertile soil waiting to nurture the seeds you sow. Even more than you can imagine will grow there if given a chance. – Steve Goodier

This Knight is not an exciting party boy like his cousin the Knight of Wands. People are more likely to call him solid and dependable. He is a methodical planner as well as diligent and committed when he puts those plans into action. He seems to ponder what he will plant next in the freshly plowed field in the background. He prods me to set an intention for the new year with a plan for execution rather than just assuming my expectations will magically appear. Yet Otter shows up, an animal known for playfulness and delight in simple pleasures. His appearance suggest my plans should not be so demanding that they will become a daily burden, tightly wrung of any joy. Such an onerous agenda would be unlikely to see a harvest.

Neither Punishment nor Reward

This week I'll be using the Norse Tarot, created by Clive Barrett and published by U.S. Games. I'll also be using the Viking Lenormand, created and self-published by my friend Carole Beasley. The draws this morning are the Prince of Discs and the Child:

Everything that ends is also the beginning of something else. Pain is not a punishment; pleasure is not a reward. ―Pema Chödrön

This Prince stands in front of what's left of a burial mound. Feeling a deep connection to earth and nature, he is aware of the seasons and the cycles of birth and death. He does not expect grains to grow in the dead of winter; neither does he expect them to continue to grow after being harvested. The Prince understands that the force that moves the circle of life is independent and does not take sides. The Child represents fresh starts and innocence. In this case, it points to embracing the truth that both pain and pleasure are inherent in life. To recognize that all beings are subject to these states can keep us from grasping or hatred, which only serve to forge man-made suffering.

We, Not Me

This week I'll be using the Anima Mundi Tarot, created and self-published by Megan Wyreweden. Paired with it will be the Nature's Pharmacy deck, created by New York Botanical Garden and published by Chronicle Books. Today's draws are the Knight of Pentacles and Arnica:

We, the People, recognize that we have responsibilities as well as rights; that our destinies are bound together... ~Barack Obama

This Knight of Pentacles is illustrated with a gray wolf, an animal loyal and dedicated to his mate and pack. Is he standing guard as a protector or is he searching for food as a hunter? Either way, he is constantly alert as his clan depends on him. This Knight embodies commitment and duty without wavering; he knows there is no ease or well-being for anyone if his focus is solely self-centered. Arnica is a part of the sunflower family; its name is likely derived from the Greek arni ("lamb") because of its soft, hairy leaves. Arnica gel has been used as an application to the skin for osteoarthritis. It reminds this dutiful Knight that he must soften his own agenda and allow others to help him. It's a we effort, not a me effort.

The Shadow Left Behind

From the Lilifer Tarot, the Knight of Pentacles; from the Wandering Soul Oracle, Mortality:

The woods are lovely, dark and deep. But I have promises to keep, and miles to go before I sleep.

–Robert Frost

This demon, built for tough, heavy work, points the way to her loyal wolf. Both are intent on taking care of business regardless of the storms they ride through. She's not only good at what she does, she's dependable and conscientious about her work too. Yet the Mortality card asks us if finishing our work (as if it's ever finished!) is more pressing than time spent with those we love or doing the things that nourish our spirit. “Time flies over us, but leaves its shadow behind,” Nathaniel Hawthorne wrote. Is 'reliable worker' all we want carved on our urn or tombstone?

Is It Good?

From the Delta Enduring Tarot, the Warrior of Cast Irons (Knight of Pentacles); from the Southernisms Oracle, 'Bless your heart:'

This guy reminds me of my eldest stepson who is a chef. Egan writes that this card represents a seasoned expert who is efficient, methodical and organized. A chef's kitchen resembles a sort of arena in which he shouts orders and directions; without such a commander, it would be pure pandemonium. This knight/warrior knows if his efforts are productive by the results they bring. 'Bless your heart' is a Janus phrase, having two contradictory meanings based on the context; it can either be a sincere wish or a polite insult. Facial expressions or remarks that follow can offer a clue. For instance, “Bless your heart, those clothes will surely make you look memorable.” In this Knight's case, words offered as an evaluation may not be a sincere representation of his work. Consider the product rather than the flattery or sarcasm.

Anyone who's a chef, who loves food, ultimately knows that all that matters is: 'Is it good? Does it give pleasure?' ~Anthony Bourdain

Noble Sacrifice

This week I'll be using the Ferret Tarot, created and self-published by Elaine Moertl. Along with it, I'll be drawing from Nature's Wisdom Oracle, created by Mindy Lighthipe and published by Schiffer Books. The cards for today are the Knight of Pentacles and Passion Flower:

Moertl calls the Knight of Pentacles "Mr. Dependable." And while he is responsible, dedicated, and willing to tackle tough jobs, he's not fast. He will stubbornly check the details of things for errors or signs of problems before finishing. I can imagine this ferret saying, "Just two more hours!" Yet rarely is anyone displeased with his results unless they miss a deadline. The Passion Flower is weirdly beautiful, though this illustration just shows a part of it. Here's a better picture. First discovered in Peru, the monastic scholar Giacomo Bosio referred to it as “the flower with the five wounds,” referring to the Passion of Christ. Both these cards suggest that when it comes to being of service, whether to individuals or a community, we each have a unique sacrifice involving our time and energy to offer.

A noble purpose inspires sacrifice, stimulates innovation and encourages perseverance.

~Gary Hamel

Adjust, Then Steady On

From the World Spirit Tarot, the Seeker (Knight) of Pentacles; from the Mystic Glyphs, Path - Go Back:

O'Leary describes this Knight as a worker bee, a fellow for whom work is both meditative and sacred. His horse is no thoroughbred, but a draft horse with strength and muscle to handle demanding jobs. He knows a slow pace and attention to details will mean less mistakes. Yet the Path - Go Back card suggests there is an insurmountable obstacle in the path he's taken to reach his goal. His humility will serve him well, as he will easily acknowledge this isn't personal. But his challenge will be in opening his mind and seeing other possibilities that weren't part of his original plans. As Jimmy Ray Dean once said, “I can’t change the direction of the wind, but I can adjust my sails to always reach my destination.”

Slow and Grateful

From the Stone Tarot, the Amazon (Knight) of Pentacles; from the Buddhist Quote Cards, a verse from the 25th chapter of the Dhammapada:

This Knight is solidly dependable, and though steady and tenacious, moves at a slower pace than some would like. But weaving through a dense rainforest on a horse necessitates care and caution. There's a difference between missing a pretty flower and failing to notice a jaguar waiting to spring. Society's constant urge to do more quickly is a habit we'd do well to break. However, moving at a patient, methodical pace might leave us feeling like the rest of life is whizzing past us. As the FOMO acronym symbolizes, we fear we're missing out on all the fun and excitement. But what we're  comparing ourselves to is what we see on the outside (being unable to see the stress and exhaustion on the inside). As the Dhammapada verse implies, gratitude rather than envy would be a better choice.

One shouldn’t scorn what one has received, nor envy others.