Ropes and Snakes

 From the Tarot of the Cat People, the Nine of Wands; from the Insectorum Divinorum, Parasitism:

To heal is to touch with love that which was previously touched by fear.

—Stephen Levine

The booklet describes this Nine of Wands as "expecting difficulties." People who've experienced domestic abuse, an unhealthy work environment, or trauma due to war or natural disasters have a hard time relaxing. As the Arabic proverb says, "Those who have been bitten by a serpent are afraid of a rope." Parasitism, represented by a flea, is a relationship where one organism (the parasite) benefits - taking nutrients or resources -at the expense of another (the host). An Al-Anon or Nar-Anon member would quickly make a connection to such a relationship. Dealing with someone whose chaotic lifestyle creates unending demands keeps a person sleeping with one eye open. Those of us who have trouble enjoying life because we think the objective is to survive it need help to heal. We need those who are compassionate and discerning, people who can point out the difference between ropes and snakes.

Selective Reality

From the Tarot of the Cat People, the Ten of Swords. From the Insectorum Divinorum, Parasitism:

It's not denial. I'm just selective about the reality I accept. ―Bill Watterson

Humans can be really smart, but we also can be extremely stubborn when it comes to clinging to certain ideas. We want to feel secure and safe, and we're often willing to put blinders on to keep from dealing with anything but our preferred reality. Parasitism is a relationship where one species benefits at the expense of its host (like the flea). Some folks make a living off of other people by trying to convince them to see life through a distorted lens. Yet there is misinformation (when people say something but don't have all the facts) and disinformation (when the intent is to mislead with false propaganda).  Reality can't be ignored forever; sooner or later we must wake up and view life with an open mind if we want to deal with it appropriately.