She's a Flame

From the Margarete Petersen Tarot, the Daughter of Flames (Page of Wands); from the Elemental Dice, Tornado (Darkness + Air):

We, we don′t have to worry 'bout nothing

′Cause we got the fire, and we're burning one hell of a something

They, they're gonna see us from outer space, outer space

Light it up, like we′re the stars of the human race, human race

—Ellie Goulding

As Alicia Keys sings, "Looks like a girl but she's a flame." This Daughter/Page has an insatiable hunger for life that spins her through the world with a fiery energy. She follows whatever passion arises, without any thought about 'shoulds' or 'what ifs.' She'd tell us it's time to burn down old habits and fears and find our freedom. Tornadoes, twisting vortexes of destruction, may only last 10 to 20 minutes. Yet the death and devastation left in their wake is mindboggling. Freeing ourselves from old patterns can be beneficial if we give our method of change some thoughtful deliberation. Burning people, places and things to the ground isn't necessary to move on. 

Up for It

From the Light Seer's Tarot, the Page of Wands; from the Tapestry Oracle, Fate:

Every why hath a wherefore.

―William Shakespeare

Good luck getting this high energy gal to sit still in a desk for a long period of time. She responds to and thrives on new sounds, sights and experiences, always ready for a challenge or for testing something innovative. Creating rather than settling for the same old same old stokes this Page's enthusiasm. No one gets bored in her company (tired maybe, but not bored). On the other end of the spectrum is Fate, often defined as something that unavoidably befalls a person. Are there things we can't change, that force us to float in that boat with the tide? We can't change our genetics or the past, but we can make an effort in the present that will affect our future. And if we need some encouragement and inspiration, we should invite a Page of Wands along. She'll probably have us carving some oars.

My Own Yardstick

From the Idiosyncradeck Tarot, the Page of Arrows (Wands); from the Mixed Emotions Cards, Stressed:

The biggest competition is myself. I am not looking to follow others or pull them down. I'm planning to test my own boundaries. ―Jung Ji-hoon (Rain)

The Page of Wands/Arrows, judging by the leaves, has had some success in his endeavors. His arrow is painted as if keeping a tally of his victories over others. What he hasn't figured out is that there will always be people less creative and noteworthy than him, yet there will also be those who excel beyond him. Excessive competition can generate fraud and unethical behavior as well as leave one's self-esteem in tatters, which explains the Stressed card. Competition only generates one winner. Instead, we can compete with our self, comparing what we've done to what we're currently doing. Rather than focusing on what others are doing, we can experiment and expand in directions that interest us. 

No Expiration Date

From the Vision Quest Tarot, the Princess of Fire (Page of Wands); from the Bird Cards, the Dodo:

I think there’s a little bit of wanderlust in each of us. This underneath-our-layers desire to explore, to discover, to fall in love with what we’ve never known or seen.

―Marisa Donnelly

This young woman offers sage to each of the four directions. She's quite aware that there are worlds beyond where she stands and cultures outside her community. Such knowledge creates a burning curiosity and an insatiable hunger to discover more about these strange places. The Dodo was an extinct, flightless bird native to the island of Mauritius. The first recorded mention of it was by Dutch sailors in 1598. In the following years, the Dodo was hunted by sailors and invasive species, while its habitat was being destroyed. Last seen in 1662, it has become a symbol of that which is obsolete and outdated. Yet its message is not to let our own curiosity expire. As the poet James Stephens said, "Curiosity will conquer fear even more than bravery will."

Balancing Both

From the Touchstone Tarot, the Page of Wands; from the Waterhouse Oracle, Gather Ye Rosebuds While Ye May:

They say a little knowledge is a dangerous thing, but it's not one half so bad as a lot of ignorance.

—Terry Pratchett

This fellow has a look of boredom; I can imagine him asking why they must learn about places from a book instead of just going there. But knowledge and preparation are useful when traveling to new places. Knowing the climate will allow us to take the right clothes, and knowing the culture may help us not offend anyone. It can also be useful to know a few phrases in that language if it is different from ours. The name of Waterhouse's painting came from a line in Robert Herrick's poem "To the Virgins, to Make Much of Time." It emphasizes the transient nature of life and encourages the reader to make the most of their opportunities. The poem was also a commentary on the social side of things - once married and with children, there would be little free time for enjoyment. This card is a counterbalance to the first, implying that study and planning are fine, but we don't need to neglect the going and doing in favor of it. 

The Excitement and Anxiety of Leaving

This week I'll be using Songs for the Journey Home, a deck and book set created and self-published by Catherine Cook and Dwariko von Sommaruga. I'll also be using Stasia Burrington's self-published deck, Magic Neko. Today's draws are Flame Innocence (Page of Wands) and the the King of Spades:

You get a strange feeling when you're about to leave a place...like you'll not only miss the people you love but you'll miss the person you are now at this time and this place, because you'll never be this way ever again. ― Azar Nafisi

I imagine this girl thinking of leaving middle school for high school, and then possibly going off to college. I remember that mix of excitement about what the world holds and the anxiety of wondering if I had what it takes to succeed. But what I think of most is all the ways my ideas and beliefs were challenged and sometimes changed by being in a new place surrounded by so many people who were different from me. It felt good to stretch and use my wings, and it allowed my mind to develop and expand. The King of Spades represents self-sufficiency. As Michel de Montaigne wrote, "The greatest thing in the world is to know how to belong to oneself." But part of that ability to know how to do things for oneself, is knowing when to ask for help when you're lost or confused!

Restlessness

From the Classic Tarot, the Page of Batons; from the Constellation Cards, Pictor:

I could not help it: the restlessness was in my nature; it agitated me to pain sometimes.

― Charlotte Brontë

This Page of Batons holds his staff as if he's rowing a boat. His curiosity has an energy to it that craves action. He's like a pot of water that starts on simmer but soon comes to a blistering boil, rattling the top on the pot. He desires to rid himself of this imaginative restlessness by channeling it into something, but whatever he begins doesn't hold his interest for long - mostly because he doesn't have the skill or knowledge to progress very far. Pictor is a constellation in the Southern Celestial Hemisphere. Its name is Latin for painter, and is an abbreviation of the older name Equuleus Pictoris (the "painter's easel"). The easel is made to support the work of the painter. In the same way, a mentor might give structure and support to this Page, recognizing his ability while offering him the skills to develop it.

Hard Knock Learning

From the Lilifer Tarot, the Page of Wands; from the Wandering Soul Oracle, Protection:

I realized how fragile we are as humans. There was a time I thought we were bulletproof...

~Joe Perry (Aerosmith)

The Page of Wands learns through exploration, yet he also seeks excitement (just look at the sparks coming off the bottom of his wand as he walks). He'll always gravitate toward whatever is thrilling or dangerous; he'd prefer learning photography in a war zone rather than a meadow of wildflowers. Because he feels invincible, it usually always requires life's hard knocks for him to gain wisdom. The hamsa symbol of Protected seems to imply that there's an amulet or power that can keep one from harm. Common sense, listening to the insights of others, and prudent choices would likely be better options. 

Aspiration, not Fixation

From the Tarot of the Crone, the Beast (Page) of Wands; from the Transforming Dragons deck, Caleus:

Love looks through a telescope; envy, through a microscope.

―Josh Billings

The Beast of Wands taps into the untamed, primal expression of his element. His passion pushes him to explore, create and experience his world fully. He is much like a well-fed domesticated cat - he still will chase and hunt as that is his nature. Caleus represents envy, a deep craving to have something he sees in the possession of another. Social media has stirred this hunger: we see what looks to be beautiful, delightful and fun and think we are missing out. But like the quote from Billings, we don't see the whole picture - the effort, the hardships, the frustrations and the exhaustion - often tied to what we think we need. If we keep our senses and mind open, we will see there is plenty for us to explore, create and experience within our reach.

Fixation is the way to death, fluidity is the way to life. This is something that should be well understood. ―Miyamoto Musashi, 

Possible to Fly

From the Delta Enduring Tarot, the Novice of Oaks (Page of Wands); from the Southernisms Oracle, 'Too big for your britches:'

It is possible to fly without motors, but not without knowledge and skill.

~Wilbur Wright

This Novice/Page has a grand sense of adventure, but not a grain of common sense. Strap on some costume wings, climb a tree, saw off the limb, then float and flutter like a butterfly. What could go wrong? He'll soon get a lesson about gravity and possibly a trip to the ER. Occasionally folks have projects and plans built on desires and imagination, but they lack anything useful that might serve as a foundation to get started. Our enthusiasm may lead us to jump without that practical  parachute. The saying 'too big for your britches' was thought to originate with Davy Crockett when speaking of Andrew Jackson (Crockett disagreed with many of Jackson’s policies, including the Indian Removal Act). It suggests someone who was arrogant with an exaggerated sense of themselves. Yet those who want to make less mistakes and reach more goals will listen to the wisdom of others and acquire they skills need before they jump out of any trees. 

Eager vs. Angry Energy

From the Wheel of Change Tarot, the Princess (Page) of Wands; from the Oracle of the Dreamtime, Frill-necked Lizard:

This young lass has a lust for life, filled with raw energy and passion. She might channel it into creative expression, social activism or exploration. Rather than learning by sitting still (that fence behind her is unlikely to hold her), this Page/Princess is educated through interaction with what and who she finds around her. The story of Frilled-neck Lizard tells of a time when there was a drought, too many animals, and not enough food or water. All the animals argued about what to do while ignoring the words of the lizard who was a rainmaker. In his anger, he climbed a tall mountain and sent powerful magic to the skies, resulting in floods and storms that killed nearly all life. Both these cards deal with energy, the kind that can be used either in positive or negative ways. 

If we react to a situation in an angry way instead of with patience, there is no benefit, and worse, negative energy is created, which is likely to exacerbate an already volatile situation. Further, when intense anger arises, it impedes our ability to use sound judgment and envision the consequences of our actions. —Allan Lokos

Bower of Remembrance

From the Swietlistej Drogi, the Page of Wands; from the Mirrors of the Heart, Remembrance:

This young Page looks ready to set the world on fire with his incessant drive for adventure. But the bower of roses over him suggests he still needs some protection (mostly from himself). The Remembrance card brought to mind what a parent might say to him as he heads our the door:

• You're only young once, but you are mortal.
• Have lots of fun, but do no harm.
• Explore and be curious about the world, but remember your roots.

Trike Ride

From the Legacy of the Divine, the Page of Wands; from the Tea Leaf Reading Cards, Key:

A mighty flame followeth a tiny spark.

~Dante Alighieri

With the look he gives us, it's easy to tell this kid is just brimming with self-confidence. He's willing to follow his curiosity anywhere if it means an adventure will be had. My Uncle John, when he was three, decided to ride his tricycle to town. This trip was much further than just a few blocks. When he arrived, a shop keeper noticed him and asked who he was (intending to call his parents). John gave them his best friend's name, which led to some confusion when the boy's parents were called (but who helped figure out who this adventurer was). The Key symbolizes unlocking something; in this case, it is our sense of adventure. As we get older, we may become less impulsive (a good thing), but we may also lose our nerve to try new things and get stuck in a rut. This Page encourages us to find our courage, hop on our trikes, and go see what we've been missing.

 

Enthusiastic Response

From the Ship of Fools Tarot, the Page of Staves (Wands); from the Wisdom of the Four Winds deck, Wind:

My birthstone is a coffee bean. ~Anonymous

There are some people who jump out of bed, inspired simply by the chance to explore and experience a new day. The Page of Wands is such a fellow; he's so excited and full of energy about the hunt for adventure that the dogs and hares seem unsure who's hunting what. I, unfortunately, rely on a couple cups of coffee to get me up and running. But I have to agree with both this Page and David Vann: "Having something to look forward to changes everything." The Wind card speaks of change, sometimes occurring with subtlety until we see it's effects. Is it possible that we could retain the Page's enthusiasm when change happens, to see it as a new adventure? As Leon Megginson wrote, "'It is not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent, but the one most responsive to change."

With Friends

From the Deirdre of Sorrows Tarot, the Page of Wands; from the Victorian Flower Oracle, Tea and Coffee:

          This cheeky Page may be dressed to impress, but he can't hide his childlike enthusiasm over a message he bears. I imagine if he was a GIF, he'd be jumping up and down. Good luck reading that note in private! If the Tea and Coffee card is a hint as to what's inside the envelope, it appears that an invitation to a chin wag with friends is being offered. Even when I'm tired and worn out, a small group of relaxed friends always lifts my spirits. As Betty Ford said, “You can make it, but it’s easier if you don’t have to do it alone.” 

Acting with Courage

From the Wild Unknown Tarot, the Princess (Page) of Wands; from the Pictish Oracle, the Pictish Beast:

One isn't necessarily born with courage, but one is born with potential.

― Maya Angelou

          The Daughter of Wands learns through discovery and exploration, which requires her to act with confidence and enthusiasm. Old habits and unfounded fears that have been learned must be met with courage and decisive action. While such assertiveness isn't always a guarantee that what she finds will bring her joy, it can bring knowledge. In this card, the wand is in flower - not yet pollinated or bearing fruit. But she still has time for more encounters and revelations to unfold. The Pictish Beast likely represents a mythical animal associated with the sea. In all of its 24 appearances on stones, it is shown in a favorable light; it possibly symbolized a benevolent power that could calm rough seas or fill the nets of fishermen. Learning acts in the same powerful way. If we can put aside the prejudice of our fears and let go of the preference of our habits, we may discover something life changing. Along this same line of thought, I am currently reading Caste:The Origins of Our Discontents by journalist Isabel Wilkerson. It is definitely not a feel-good book, but it is eye-opening and recommended. I wish it were required reading for all elected officials. 

Don't Forget the Sunscreen

From the Stone Tarot, the Page of Wands; from the Buddhist Quote Cards, Dhammapada 13:176:

How long can you wait here,

August sun branding your neck?

~Alison Stone

          Full of energy and excitement, this Page has rushed out to see, do and explore without thinking about protecting herself from the hot summer sun. Most folks who've ever been eager to get somewhere can relate to forgetting a few essential things. The head-to-toe sunburn she's likely to have later might be a good reminder to plan a little better the next time she sets off on an adventure. Yet the Dhammapada adds another warning about being impulsive when it comes to trusting others: "For people who speak falsely, who transgress in this one way, and who reject the world beyond, there is no evil they won't do." When people say what we want to hear and claim to be able to give us what we desire, it can be easy to forget to investigate before we jump in. If we do, we're likely to get just as burned as this Page.

The Width of It

From the Badgers Forest Tarot, the Page of Wands; from the Gemstone Oracle, Red Jasper:

          This little bunny is up early to explore the meadow this morning - there are so many things to see, sniff and nibble on. With all his natural-born eagerness and energy, he learns best by experiencing things rather than reading or listening (just ask his mother about that last one). It would be wise to at least try to temper his excitement with some words of caution, but Red Jasper ('passion for living') suggest we don't throw too much cold water on his inner fire. We would do well to heed the words of Diane Ackerman to balance out any tendency to be overly cautious: "I do not want to get to the end of my life and find that I just lived the length of it. I want to have lived the width of it as well."

Experience is a Friend

From the Cosmic Cycles Tarot, the Page of Wands; from the Magic Neko Deck, the King of Hearts:

You don't learn to walk by following rules. You learn by doing, and by falling over.

― Richard Branson

          The Page of Wands is full of curiosity paired with an adventuresome spirit. She learns by doing, even when that doing falls outside of etiquette or the typical norm. She will likely wind up with plenty of scrapes, stitches, and maybe even a broken bone, but nothing will dampen her desire to explore and learn. Experience is her friend even though it can be a hard taskmaster at times. Yet the King of Hearts suggests that she add another tool to her knapsack - intuition. Even a cat knows that while curiosity can lead to discovery, it always is a good idea to follow one's inner nudges as well. Sometimes the best road to travel is the one our intuition directs us toward.

Caught Up

From the Prisma Visions Tarot, the Page of Wands; from the Secret Language of Color Cards, Yellow:

          An ethereal vine of inspiration has swept this Page off his feet. He'll probably forget to eat and will sleep little while caught in its grip. Little notes will fill his pockets and sketches or outlines will cover his desk. While it can appear as a bout of insanity, it may be both fulfilling and liberating for him. As Roy Bennett wrote, "Instead of worrying about what you cannot control, shift your energy to what you can create." Although inspiration might be the fuel that drives us, it can't sustain us mentally or physically. Yellow suggests we take time to cleanse the body and the mind. Motivation stays high when we take time to relax and play, to eat healthy food and stretch our bodies, and perhaps meditate. Besides, that's often when our best solutions or guidance comes.