Not Okay

This week I'll be using the Idiosyncradeck Tarot, created and self-published by Jessica Bott. Along with it, I'll be drawing from the Mixed Emotions Cards, created by Petra Martin with Kris Wiltse (Illustrator) and published by Heron Lake Press. Today's draws are the Five of Stones and Loving:

I am not okay

I'm barely gettin' by

I'm losin' track of days

And losin' sleep at night

I am not okay

I'm hangin' on the rails

So if I say I'm fine

Just know I learned to hide it well

―Jelly Roll

This stone has been eroded by flood, wind and precipitation to the point that just a gust of wind could topple it. It's the same way with humans, when we get hit time and time again with unexpected events, hardship and emotional challenges. We barely have time to get to our feet when we get knocked down again. When sincere folks ask how we're coping, do we answer "Fine"? We all know what that stands for: f#cked up, insecure, neurotic and emotional. The Loving card encourages us to drop the tough act and be honest, including being tender to our self. Doing so would allow others to reach behind the wall we've erected and offer support.

Save Some Passion

From the Idiosyncradeck Tarot, the King of Arrows (Wands); from the Mixed Emotions deck, 'Loving:'

          With his charisma and energy, the King of Wands is a natural leader. Don't expect him to follow the same old way of doing things; he thrives on creativity and originality. He has the courage of conviction and will follow through on his goal no matter what the challenges. People always feel bold and daring when following this fellow, as if they're in the spotlight too. He reminds me a bit of Elon Musk, who recently successfully launched his own rocket into space (with a Tesla Roadster on board). The downside for people who thrive on such passionate endeavors is that sometimes their close relationships take a back seat. It doesn't take long before the Righteous Brothers are singing in the background, "You lost that lovin' feeling." The Loving card is a reminder that relationships require the same sort of effort and enthusiasm. The problem is not that each partner has separate interests, but that they forget to nurture their common bond too. In the words of J.K. Rowling, "Indifference and neglect often do much more damage than outright dislike."