The Downside of Imagination

From the Russian Lubok Tarot, the Nine of Swords; from the Marseille Oracle, Presentiments:

When we resist change, it’s called suffering. But when we can let go and not struggle against it, that’s called enlightenment. ~Pema Chödrön

A woman covers her eyes in fear as her horse-drawn sled is surrounded by wolves. The stripes on the wolves are a hint that she's not seeing reality but lost in the forest of ''what ifs." The trumpet represents presentiments, or apprehensions and expectations. When something unexpected and unwanted happens, our mind generally heads down the road of Worst Possible Outcomes. We can become so anxious that we fail to see what we can do that might be beneficial. Before we freak out, let's open our eyes and see what is in front of us rather than what we imagine is there.

Just Because You're Bored

From the Russian Lubok Tarot, the Two of Wands; from the Marseille Oracle, Presentiments:

In this Two of Wands, a large owl stands atop a castle. Being a symbol of wisdom, it suggests a careful analysis of whether expanding our endeavors or focusing on what's in front of us is the smarter option. It can seem boring to stick with what we have and exciting to go after something new, but the owl's wide-eyed gaze warns us to see things clearly. The circular trumpet on the Presentiments card warns that we should also pay attention to any apprehensions or forebodings we might have. While our idea might be a good one, the timing might not be right or the people we'd be working with might be a problem down the road. This definitely should not be an impulsive decision.