Pushing Back

From the Slow Tarot, the Nine of Wands; from the ROAR Oracle, Ada Lovelace:

There is no greater education than one that is self-driven.

―Neil deGrasse Tyson

I can just imagine someone asking this woman, "Haven't you had enough? Why are you so stubborn?" But she is no contrarian, no rebel without a cause. She's seen what this fight is worth (the flowering branches behind her) and knows the fruit of her effort will be worth the hardship. Ada Lovelace's mathematical talents led her to a long working relationship and friendship with mathematician Charles Babbage, known as the "father of computers." Lovelace recognized that their work on the Analytical Engine had applications far beyond pure calculation. She didn't have time for sexist Victorian BS; she encourages us to push against boundaries set into place by others that limit us. 

Consequences

This week I'll be using the Delta Enduring Tarot, created and self-published by Bridgette Egan. Along with it, I'll be drawing from the Southernisms Oracle (a deck I created based on sayings I grew up with). Today's draws are the Nine of Oaks (Wands) and Drunk as Cooter Brown:

For evil to flourish, it only requires good men to do nothing. 

―Simon Wiesenthal

The Nine of Oaks shows a mother nutria (a semiaquatic rodent similar to a beaver) defending her babies. Motherhood is exhausting, but it has already taught her to be flexible and adaptable when meeting challenges - necessary traits for resilience. We can draw on our own experiences, remembering what worked well and what didn't, when we face a new difficulty. The Southernism card illustrates the legend of Cooter Brown who refused to fight on either side of the Civil War. He decided he would stay drunk on moonshine for the entire time, making him an unfit soldier. Yet even if he didn't want to go into battle, there were other options other than giving himself cirrhosis of the liver. Perhaps he could have hidden people in danger, helping them to safety. While action isn't always advisable in every circumstance, doing nothing can have extreme consequences. 

Defensive Posture

From the Osho Zen Tarot, the Nine of Wands; from the A'HA Oracle, Eye of the Cosmos:

All this hurrying from place to place won't bring you any relief, for you're travelling in the company of your own emotions, followed by your troubles all the way. ―Seneca

Exhaustion is the fitting subtitle Padma gives to this card. I have a friend who lives life in a defensive posture, having been shaped from an early age by years of cruelty, desperation and fear. Having a conversation with her is a winding road that first must detour many roadblocks put up in a neurotic attempt to protect herself. Yet she'll often relax her guard on my back porch, as we sit and watch the birds and the leaves fluttering in breeze - it is a place she feels safe and loved. The eye of a hurricane, typically 20 to 40 miles across, is characterized by light breezes and sunny skies. This place of calm in the middle of the storm is what The Eye of the Cosmos entreats us to find, whether internal or external. We all need a place of refuge to remind us that there's more to this world than simply defending ourselves.

While It's Easy

From the Shadowlands Tarot, the Nine of Wands; from the Brownie Wisdom Deck, "When Others Scoff:"

One important key to success is self-confidence. An important key to self-confidence is preparation. ―Arthur Ashe

This little monster checks his prep list as he waits and watches, knowing a confrontation is imminent. The bandage across his forehead suggests he's met similar challenges, so he knows how to gather what is needed to prepare for it. As Sun Tzu said, "Plan for what is difficult while it is easy;" waiting until the middle of the storm is useless. The Brownie card suggests that there will be those who make fun of such readiness. But it is about more than just having resources at hand that might be needed. Preparation also gives us a boost in confidence that we can get through this successfully.

Trojan Horses

From the Sasuraibito Tarot, the Nine of Wands; from the Soul Cards, Hidden Motives:

You may have been through some shit, and are a little beaten up, but stay strong. Be resilient and breathe, you are almost to a place of respite and recovery.

— Stasia Burrington

Cicero once said that habit teaches us to bear fatigue and to despise wounds and pain. If we're in a life and death situation, it's necessary. But on the downside, fatigue may rob us of our judgment and cloud our discernment. The Hidden Motives figure extends a helping hand while holding a dagger in the other. We need to stay alert, especially when presented with enticing gifts or offers. As Virgil said, "Trust not the horse, O Trojans. Be it what it may, I fear the Greeks when they offer gifts."

Like Water

From the World Spirit Tarot, the Nine of Wands; from the Mystic Glyphs, Moon Phases:

The wise adapt themselves to circumstances, as water molds itself to the pitcher. 

–Chinese Proverb

The stance of this fellow reminds me of a tennis player; knees bent, he's ready to move in any direction and take action. When taking a posture of protection, we need to be awake as well as resilient, which requires the ability to be flexible when things change. Moon Phases suggest that things will change, though sometimes slowly. As the saying goes, "This too will pass," though it's too soon to let down our guard.

Endurance with Direction

This week I'll be using the Wheel of Change Tarot, a deck and book set created by Alexandra Genetti and published by Inner Traditions. The second deck I'll be drawing from is the Oracle of the Dreamtime, a compilation of Australian Aboriginal art and Dreamings by Donni Hakanson; this deck and book set was published by Journey Editions. Today's cards are the Nine of Wands and Frog:

Resilience is distinct from mere survival, and more than mere endurance. Resilience is often endurance with direction. ~Eric Greitens

How is a didgeridoo made? First the right eucalyptus tree must be found, one slightly hollowed out by termites. After the termite tunnels and bark are removed, the wood must dry for 6 to 8 months. Then the trunk is cut at just the right place, and the interior is carved out (being careful not to carve too much). The outside is slimmed, being sure to keep the same thickness the entire length (adjusting for termite tunnels), and the tone is adjusted. Finally, the outside is varnished and a beeswax mouthpiece added. Like crafting a didgeridoo, crossing any finish line takes resilience, a combination of persistence and flexibility. The Dreamtime story of Frog tells of how he was so thirsty, he drank up all the water. When the other thirsty animals found the billabong dry and saw the swollen frog, they decided to make him laugh to release the water (which the eel finally did). The ability to see humor in trying circumstances is an important tool in resilience. Rather than getting bogged down by anger, it helps us meet our challenges with a light heart.

Willingness

From the Alchemical Tarot Renewed, the Nine of Wands; from the Oracle of the Radiant Sun, Fortune (Sun in Leo):

Be willing to be uncomfortable. —Peter McWilliams

When people begin the path of recovery, whether the result of an injury or an addiction, they are often told, "Be willing to stand in the fire without running." We naturally want relief when fear or pain begin, and we find it hard to hold on to the idea that this will pass, that things will get better. But our resilience in holding firm is what will help us heal and grow instead of staying stuck. The Fortune of the Sun in Leo represents increased energy and self-confidence - traits that we develop when we, as Eleanor Roosevelt said, "do the thing you think you cannot do."

Knowing When to Fight

From the Tarot of the Masters, the Nine of Wands; from the Key to the Kingdom deck, the Four of Spades:

He will win who knows when to fight and when not to fight.

― Sun Tzu

This rendering is from Théodore Gericault's painting, Nude Warrior with a Spear. This fellow has a relaxed posture yet he is still watchful. He has fortitude, yet he chooses his battles wisely instead of attacking everything that moves or makes a noise. Prolonged challenges can make us weary and may lead to us becoming overly suspicious and high strung. We must not lose our ability to think rationally and ask questions before react as Sun Tzu describes - fighting blindly and desperately like a mad bull. The Four of Spades offers a riddle about sleepy, summer days and an insect that stings (yellow jacket). Anyone whose ever been around bees and wasps will tell you not to swat at them because you might get stung unintentionally. Better to suss out a situation than kick a hornet's nest and create a conflict.

In the Zone

From the New Era Elements Tarot, the Nine of Fire (Wands); from the Tao Oracle, The Arousing (Hexagram 51):

The zone is a state of mind which is marked by a sense of calmness. In addition, there is a heightened sense of awareness and focus. Actions seem effortless and there is an increased belief that your dreams or goals can become achievable and real.  – Dr. Jay Granat

Pieper illustrates the Nine of Fire (Wands) with an inside look at the National Ignition Facility - a laser based fusion device. When we are physically tired, we often must focus our will and mind towards the task at hand in order to reach completion. Fantasy-filled distraction will cause a leak to develop in our determination and discipline. As Julie Myoko Terestman explained, "That’s the sweet spot, where you’re not thinking about what you’re going to do next—you’re just in that zone where one thing is leading to the next thing ..." The Arousing (hexagram 51) suggests the jump scare of an unexpected crack of thunder and a flash of lightning. It has the effect of shaking us awake, out of our reverie and back into the present moment, back into the awareness of what is currently happening.

An Effective Weapon

From the Ship of Fools Tarot, the Nine of Staves; from the Wisdom of the Four Winds, Fantail:

The Nine of Wands generally suggests staying alert and defending what is important. But sometimes it may be just about us; we are simply trying to keep at it in order to reach a goal so that we don't let exhaustion or other distractions deter our effort. It could be that we're trying to finish a project before a deadline, get through the last course of treatment for an illness, or complete a course that adds to our skills and knowledge. It may seem easier to say 'the hell with it' than hang in there. Yet a bird offers us an effective outlet. Fantails, when perched, often continue to rock back and forth, spin 180° on the spot, wag their tail from side to side or fan it. This bird is a source of joy and laughter, reminding us that humor can help restore our sanity and determination. As Mark Twain said, "The human race has one really effective weapon, and that is laughter."

Hanging On

From the Sun and Moon Tarot, the Nine of Wands; from the Jade Oracle, Mayahuel:

But grace can be the experience of a second wind, when even though what you want is clarity and resolution, what you get is stamina and poignancy and the strength to hang on. 

―Anne Lamott

Just when we think we have hit a wall, when we are too tired to endure another minute, we get a second wind. We find a reservoir of untapped strength and a renewal of purpose and determination. It's just what we need to get us to the finish line. Mayahuel is a goddess associated with the maguey plant (of the genus Agave). It was used for a variety of purposes - from rope and clothes to an alcoholic beverage. Mayahuel is symbolic of all that which nourishes and sustains us, the basic necessities we need as well as what motivates us to thrive and survive.

Delightful Season

From the PetraK Tarot, the Nine of Wands; from the Astrodice, Mercury/Gemini/8th House:

Eight burned out matches and one aglow on an orange ball makes me think of George Harrison singing that while it's been a long, cold lonely winter, the sun is on its way. I've often heard that a balance of gratitude and tenacity can serve a person in good stead when things are tough while remembering change is coming. Getting older means dealing with a body that begins to wear down, but I've decided to make the words of poet Sandra Cisneros my motto as I age: "I am a woman of a delightful season." The Mercury/Gemini/8th House roll suggests a conversation about the cycles of life and their meaning. Today is a good day for pondering them, but with a mind and heart full of appreciation.

What You Stand For

From the Stone Tarot, the Nine of Wands; from the Buddhist Quote Cards, a verse from the 14th chapter of the Dhammapada:

You have to know what you stand for, not just what you stand against.

― Laurie Halse

The Nine of Wands is a sacrificial investment of energy, one that we hope will pay off. While it may feel like the finish line gets further away, that sunrise in this card suggests the outcome won't be too much longer. Georgia is in the middle of several hotly contested elections (several involve women of color vs. the 'good ole boys' club). Early voting is breaking records; my family and I plan on casting our votes tomorrow. The lines and wait will be long, but we hope to help dig out some entrenched minds and sow new seeds. The verse from the Dhammapada suggests that getting what pleases us may temporarily bring some pleasure, but there will be more challenges later. Prudent use of energy is needed now - it is time to focus on what's important rather than fulfilling the desires of the senses.

Not even with a shower of gold coins would we find satisfaction in sensual craving. 

No Hill

This week I'll be using the Cosmic Tarot, created by Norbert Losche and published by U.S. Games. I'll also be drawing from L'Oeil de Lotus (Eye of the Lotus), created by Colette and Gérard Lougarre and published by Vox Arkhana. Today's cards are the Nine of Wands and Death:

A young man defiantly faces forward, willing to meet rather than avoid what comes. The wands and the lion behind him represent past struggles that he's had the courage to push through; the snake and wands before him represent the strength and perseverance he'll need to rise to the next challenge. Dealing with adversity for months and years requires not just physical stamina, but mental as well. Yet the Death card suggests these hardships will not require an ongoing sacrifice. As the Masai proverb states, "There is no hill that never ends." The pomegranate indicates looking within ourselves for our power rather than relying on anger (which will deplete our energy and cloud our thinking). The butterfly atop the hour glass implies that seeing this through will change us in ways that are liberating.

Adversity is like a strong wind. It tears away from us all but the things that cannot be torn, so that we see ourselves as we really are. ~Arthur Golden

Resilience and Restoration

From the Swietlistej Drogi, the Nine of Wands; from the Mirrors of the Heart deck, Earth:

A woman tenderly cares for a man in the last hour of his life. Never before have I see a Nine of Wands card that I could so viscerally relate with. Anyone who has cared for the dying knows the heaviness of bearing witness to another's pain and passing with compassion. Such attention is a gift to the dying (and ourselves), but it is physically and emotionally exhausting. It is no wonder that the Earth card shows up too. After that kind of experience is over, it's only human to second guess ourselves - "I should have... I wish I could have..." Though we carry it in our mind, the event is already in the past; it is time to ground ourselves in the present by using the comforts of our senses. 

Feeling rooted in the earth is soothing to the body, and it is our connection to the earth that gives us our most basic sense of belonging, home, resilience, and safety.

― Jessica Moore

Running with Turtles

From the Gaian Tarot, the Nine of Fire (Wands); from the Goddess Oracle, Changing Woman:

When we're in the middle of a long haul situation, we don't need our energy to blaze but to burn as glowing coals. That kind of inner fire can keep us going without causing us to lose our clarity or equanimity. Rather than indifference, it permits us to stay attentive to what is happening without allowing our thoughts to intensify and magnify it. Changing Woman, also known as Estsanatlehi by the Navajo people, passes through an endless course of lives. Much like the seasons, she grows to be an old woman, and in the course of time, becomes a young woman again. She symbolizes cycles, yet also reminds us that no cycle is the same as before (just as one season doesn't exactly replicate another). No matter what we presently experience, it will change. And though that change may look familiar, our perspective, thoughts and actions can make it a very different experience altogether. 

I don’t mind running with turtles.

— Sondra Faye

Putting It All Together

From The Classic Tarot, the Nine of Staves; from the Constellations Deck, Libra:

Commit to doing something long enough, and our efforts will produce beneficial experience. We'll be quicker to discern a fluffy distraction from a detail that needs our attention. When we're close to the finish line, we develop a laser-like focus - much like that center rod - and block out nearly everything else. (Note there are no vines or blooms on this card.) Yet Libra, whose Latin meaning translates 'to balance or weigh,' warns us not to lose our equilibrium in the final stretch. We still need to take care of our own well-being and other obligations. It won't hurt us to pause, catch our breath and take care of a few necessities before we push on. 

The proportion of ingredients is important, but the final result is also a matter of how you put them together. ~Alain Ducasse

Your Inner Bear

From The Classic Tarot, the Nine of Staves; from the Constellations Deck, Ursa Major:

There are no symbolic flowers or vines on this card, emphasizing its pragmatic, no-frills nature. The Staves represent assertive energy used to accomplish an objective, and nine of them means this has been an extended, on-going effort. Tenacity sounds like a wonderful trait until you've been slogging through metaphorical mud and muck for days on end. Ursa Major (Latin for 'great bear'), however, encourages us to look within to find our strength and power to persevere. Endurance is not used up when we stay in the present moment, dealing with the current task, rather than looking for problems in the future. And our source of power may come when we consider why we are doing this - a deeper, meaningful motive - beyond any self-aggrandizement. 

Patience and tenacity are worth more than twice their weight of cleverness.

~Thomas Huxley

 

The Art of Asking for Help

From the Shining Tribe Tarot, the Nine of Trees (Wands); from the Animal Tiles, Wolf:

This Nine of Wands illustrates the myth of Inanna who planted a tree on earth in hopes of having a throne and bed one day. But as the tree grew, other beings invaded it. Along came a human hero who cut down the tree and carved a throne and bed for her from it. As the book points out, if we try to see the world as only joy and light, our perception becomes distorted. We must take responsibility and make the effort to stand up for what we need. Of all the members of the genus Canis, the Wolf,  is most specialized for cooperative group hunting. Social animals, its pack consists of a mated pair and their offspring. Wolf is a reminder that it's smart and beneficial to allow others to help us, as long as we don't saddle them with all the work. 

It is an art to know how much responsibility to take on yourself and how much to direct to each of the people you are working with so that each person feels challenged but not overwhelmed.

~Judy Lief