Don't Worry About It

From the Ship of Fools, the Tower; from the Wisdom of the Four Winds, Octopus:

Why are you, or anybody, afraid? Is it based on not wanting to be hurt? Or is it that one wants complete security? —Krishnamurti

This fool's house is on fire, but he seems to be thinking, "Maybe it will go out on its own" instead of getting to safety. For him, the Tower is his security, his escape from all he fears. Everyone is scared of something, but reality has a way of finding us whether we like it or not. The Octopus, an adaptable, intelligent creature, has had legends told about it that make it into a hideous monster. From 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea to Ursala in The Little Mermaid, it was something to be feared. Yes, it is unusual, but it is also wonderful. Sometimes what we fear - if we face it - can teach us how to be more adaptable to what shows up unexpected.

Flashing Lights

From Waking the Wild Spirit Tarot, Natural Force/Wild Power (Strength); from the Saltwater Reading Cards, Octopus:

Can we speak our truth above a whisper without roaring it? Can we live from a heart of kindness without being taking advantage of? We all have Strength's power within us, but it may be too tame and timid or uncontrollable and violent to be beneficial. This force is something we must learn to harness for courage and tolerance without caging it, allowing us to respond appropriately to each situation. Bowen's Octopus card illustrates the blue-ringed octopus, a marine animal known for the dangerous neurotoxic venom it contains. Yet it gives warning before it attacks; if provoked, this octopus quickly changes color, becoming bright yellow with each of its rings flashing bright iridescent blue. Thus this animal's keyword is awareness. Both these cards suggest that I consider whether I am aware of (and respect) other's boundaries as well as make my own obvious and hold to them. As one anonymous person said, "The only people who get upset about you setting boundaries are the ones who were benefiting from you having none."