Finding My Own Happy Groove

From the Ellis Deck, the Nine of Cups:

When you're away from human companionship, do you dress the way you want? Do you cook what you you feel like eating or only what you 'should' eat? Are your hours filled only with obligations to complete, or do you manage to enjoy hobbies and other leisure activities? In his online notes, Ellis explains the jubilant man in this card: "In his solitude, he had rediscovered what was still missing." As long as I look to other people for my contentment, I will be sorely disappointed. It's not that I don't enjoy being with family and friends or making new acquaintances - I do. But I need time alone to figure out from where the source of my joy springs, the places and things that bring both peace and inspiration. Without being hampered by expectations and codes of behavior, I'll discover my own happy groove.

From the Oracle of Shadows and Light comes the card "Two Little Witches:"

It's amazing all the "shoulds" people pick up along the way as we grow older. And what a guilt trip we take when we break one of those rules! These two little witches offer me their broom to sweep out all those presumptions, and they adamantly demand that I stop all my people-pleasing. If I'm going to have room in my life for what brings me satisfaction and joy, some of that "should" collection is going to have to go.