Staying Awake

From the Tarot of Timeless Truth, the Nine of Wands; from the Shaman's Oracle, the 'Spirit of Nurture:'

          It's hard to be watchful and alert, especially if we've been at it for a while. Boredom creeps in, and we begin to fantasize about doing something more enjoyable. Or it can become something else; in the words of Paul Tillich, "Boredom is rage spread thin." The effects of rage can equally distract us with detailed thoughts of revenge. Yet the Spirit of Nurture offers us a way to be present and awake without slipping into paranoia, boredom or rage. Matthews describes this Spirit as one that will fortify and offer us sustenance. It gives us support and access to energy. If we are paying attention, we might meet a new person or find out about a book that will offer us information we seek. We could hear words that give us a much wider perspective than the narrow view we've been tightly holding onto. What is coming over that hill might be an ally rather than an enemy.

Use the Cruise Control

This week I'll be using the Greenwood Tarot, created by Chesca Potter and published by Thorsons. Mark Ryan helped write the accompanying text. I'll also be using the Shaman's Oracle, created by Wil Kinghan with text by John Matthews and published by Watkins. Today's draws are the Six of Arrows (Swords) and "Spirit of Nurture:"

          Even though I'm using a different deck, I've drawn the same tarot card as yesterday. Here a man sets sail in toward a tree covered island as the sun sets and moon rises. My attention is drawn to the six-pointed star (hexagram) on the sail. In Eastern philosophies, it represents a union of opposites - physical and spiritual, masculine and feminine. It is the center symbol for the heart chakra, and can indicate all four elements in alchemy. Known as the Seal of Solomon in high magic, it also has come to represent the Jewish faith. Potter gives this card the keyword "transition," and describes it as "an emotional retreat." This description fits nicely with the next card, the Spirit of Nurture.  The cave art shows a spirit house, a refuge in times of adversity. It is a place to recover strength and gather thoughts before continuing on the journey. I could use such a haven now. The hexagram reminds me how the challenges of outer life are also challenging my inner life. Looks like its time to suspend activity (mental and physical) in favor of some breathing space.