Efforts for a Firm Foundation

This week I'll be using the Daniloff Tarot, created and self-published by Alexander Daniloff. I'll also be using a set of Kuan Yin Sticks with the corresponding verses from www.kuanshihyin.net. Today's draws are the King of Coins and Verse 92:

          The Kings in the Daniloff have literally become the shields that protect their kingdoms. The King of Coins card shows three animals that symbolize the qualities that have made him into the man he is today. The shell of the tortoise suggests he is grounded, practical and patient. The elephant implies he is a man of strength and power, able to overcome challenges and obstacles. The bull represents a strong will that has resulted in his tenacity and confidence. The country is stable because of the foundation of qualities it has been built on. Yet the animals also suggest the ability to move in the interest of adaption and progress.
          The 92nd Verse of Kuan Yin reads:

Since youth he has been a merchant of many years and has earned his fortune under many kings. No one has helped him in his struggle up from a lowly commoner to a noble knight. A man has grown up from his boyhood and now stands firmly on his feet. His mind he keeps constantly alert, his reward is his present rank and honor.

This verse sounds like it was written for the King. It is a reminder that struggles can shape and mold me, providing the experiences I need to become strong, determined and capable. Can I see them in this light when I'm going through them? Likely not. But I can try to remember the words of Benjamin Hoff: "Without difficulties, life would be like a stream without rocks and curves – about as interesting as concrete. Without problems, there can be no personal growth, no group achievement, no progress of humanity. But what matters about problems is what one does with them."

*Photo of Kuan Yin from www.studiobridges.com