Seeing the Solution

From the Tarot of Durer, the King of Swords; from the Philosopher's Stone, Solution:

          Unlike his younger sons, the King of Swords has tamed his dragon (impulsive words) and domesticated his fox (manipulative intellect). Now that doesn't mean he can't build a fire under people to get them moving or plan a strategy to protect and advance his kingdom. He just does it thoughtfully and objectively, considering what will benefit all instead of just a few. As I leave to go spend a few days with my mom and cousins, I need to adopt his mature vision. Their political and religious views are very dissimilar to my own, which can make conversation difficult. The Stone card suggests there is a solution, as the stylized question mark becomes an exclamation point in shadow. Rather than an obstacle, the brick wall might be the answer. As long as I remain respectful and don't become emotionally entangled, I can make space for everyone's opinions and beliefs. Then we'll all have a section of wall to creatively express our ideas on, just like graffiti artists.

Coddling My Own Opinion

From the Tarot of Durer, the Emperor; from the Philosopher's Stone, "Solution:"

This is a rather jolly looking Emperor; the Latin phrase below his throne reads: "No person can lead well unless he has learned to obey." I would guess that this guy wasn't born with a silver spoon in his mouth. He has experienced the same sort of life of his subjects, and he knows intimately the kind of daily challenges they must face. The vulture (who dines on road kill) suggests the Emperor knows how to be content with what is available. Several years ago we had a fellow running for the office of U.S. President. His net worth was conservatively estimated to be at $250 million. He owned three homes, one a summer compound worth $8 million. Had this man ever faced real hunger? Did he ever have to choose which bill not to pay because he had an unexpected medical expense? Was he ever without a job and worried about his family being homeless? My guess would be that he had not; he had little in common with the people he wanted to preside over. No wonder he didn't get elected.
The Solution card shows a stone in the shape of a Century Gothic question mark from the front, yet its shadow casts the shape of an exclamation point. In chemistry, a solution is two or more substances evenly mixed together. It suggests brainstorming, where even the wildest ideas are considered in order to find one that helps fix the problem. These two cards suggest I need a wide perspective to find the answers I seek, which will involve listening with an open mind. Coddling my own opinion will only keep me staring at that stone wall.

The Test of True Love

From the Tarot of Durer, the Lovers:

Nothing is difficult for those who love.

Pan plays his music and a woman reaches out to him, looking (in my opinion) like a twitchy meth-head in need of another fix.  Her submissive posture makes my skin crawl - call it addiction, manipulation, or control, but don't call this love.  Even the doves have their backs turned to them.  Authentic love is a bond that creates two strong individuals, not two unhealthy ones.  It doesn't require a person to leave his or her brain at the door, because the relationship is based on an equal partnership.  I will always have choices in my relationships, unless I choose to surrender them to someone else. 

 

From the Philosopher's Stone comes "Solution:"

Up against a brick wall, a question mark becomes an exclamation point when seen from a different perspective.  The value of relationships, besides companionship and compassion, is they allow a variety of ideas to be shared between people.  For instance, when I do the Sunday crossword puzzle with my mother-in-law, it helps to have another viewpoint when considering the clues.  If the clue deals with "diamond," I might think of the gemstone, but she might also consider a baseball field.  However, solutions are more likely to be found if both partners feel comfortable in sharing their thoughts and opinions. 

Communicating Perspectives

This morning I pulled another cups card from the Tarot of Durer, the Two of Cups:

A couple hold hands while sitting at a table, their body posture reflecting their feelings for each other.  Behind them is a farm house and a field of grain, implying a relationship that is both stable and productive.  My concern is the one cup balanced on the edge, ready to take a spill if the table is even lightly bumped.  This image prompts me to be aware of how fragile friendships and partnerships can be in the realm of humans.  It is a bond that requires continuous effort on the part of both parties.  While commonality is a thread that seems to weave itself through my connections with others, the most important facet for me is honest and respectful communication.  The ability to hear with an open heart and mind as well as speak the truth is what can help that cup stay firmly on the table.

     From the Philosopher's Stone deck today comes the card "Solution:"

I don't know of any adult who hasn't at some point felt up against a brick wall like this one.  And the question mark made of stone seems to taunt, "What am I going to do now?  How will I ever resolve this?"  And generally, if there are other people involved, comes the question, "Why can't they see it my way?"  But if I look at the question mark from the side, rather than from the front, it appears to be an exclamation mark instead.  The uncertainty suddenly turns into an "aha" moment.  In the same way, I need to learn to see from a new perspective (possibly from someone else) in order to get a new angle on the problem.  Otherwise, I may end up staring at that brick wall for a long time...