Slipping from Our Grasp

From the Prisma Visions Tarot, the Five of Chalices; from the Secret Language of Color Cards, Empathy:

It is a natural instinct to grasp what is falling, reach for what is slipping or chase what is running away.  ―Sarah Voldeng

Relationships that we have history with, that we've invested time and love in, are hard to let slip from our grasp. We grieve, yet it is prudent to also care for our own heart with kindness. It may help to remember Voldeng's words: "It is impossible to exercise control where we have no reign." Turquoise blends calming blue with rejuvenating green and relates to empathy. This perspective includes both the affective (feeling what others feel) and cognitive (understanding their thoughts). When we are willing to acknowledge the views and feelings of those who left us, it can help us accept their loss. And in doing so, we might approach our current relationships with more awareness and appreciation. 

Perfect Day

From the Badgers Forest Tarot, the Nine of Cups (Foxes); from the Gemstone Oracle, Turquoise:

What would your perfect day look like? As the sun rises, I imagine this fox's day of contentment would include an easy meal, no hunters, pleasant weather, and something interesting to investigate. This fox would remind me to put my worries about the future aside and enjoy the good that's right under my feet here and now. The 'wish card' of satisfaction is of course temporary. But Turquoise, with its key phrase "lasting inner peace," offers me a way to extend things. This stone's quote comes from Miguel Ruiz: "There is a huge amount of freedom that comes to you when you take nothing personally." Equanimity is rooted in insight, realizing that everything changes and that everyone has to deal with challenges. It's not personal, it's just life.

One of the central teachings of all the world’s wisdom traditions is this – anything that changes is not a reliable place to find lasting fulfilment. Fulfilment is cultivated from within...

~Melli O'Brien

Feeling Boarish

From the Badger's Forest Tarot, the Hierophant; from the Gemstone Oracle, "Turquoise:"

          Wild boars are an invasive species here in the States. They cause extensive damage to pastures and crops and eat everything from acorns to newborn mammals (including livestock). They also carry diseases that are transmissible to humans. It is telling that the Georgia Department of Natural Resources has a year-round open hunting season with no limit for them. Wild boars that are heavily hunted have adapted by foraging at night instead of the day. They are intelligent, wily and vicious if threatened. I admire their survival skills and tenacity, yet I respect and fear them because they are dangerous. The parallels between this animal and leaders (especially of religious or political groups) are obvious. Individuality is not favored; it is a closed community unless you want to join. But if you do, don't bring any doubts or personal opinions - they aren't allowed.

          The quote and keywords chosen for turquoise are:

There is a huge amount of freedom that comes to you when you take nothing personally.

~ Miguel Ruiz

lasting inner peace, contentment and satisfaction, equanimity, simplicity

Whoops... it appears from Mr. Ruiz's statement that my prejudice is showing. Just because I've had a bad experience with a few communities doesn't mean they are all bad. Many groups can give people a sense of belonging and offer encouragement when life gets tough. If life is chaotic and overwhelming, their philosophy can help them understand it and provide hope that things will get better. I suppose I shouldn't paint with such a wide brush.