Walking Side by Side

From the Tarot of the Master, the Two of Cups; from the Paracelsus Oracle, Via:

These two covered cups on the platter are slightly different but complement each other. In other words, they make the platter look complete and whole. There is that same feeling in partnerships that are healthy and nurturing - our different assets can help balance each other. Via ('way') indicates movement, and its linear form suggests a road. It is associated with the Moon, signaling change. What is the way forward for a partnership? I am reminded of Seng Ts’an's words:

The great Way has no impediments;

It does not pick and choose.

When you abandon attachment and aversion

You see it plainly.

Making Progress

From the Tarot of the Master, the Three of Coins; from the Paracelsus Oracle, Via:

Knowledge cannot be merely a degree or a skill... it demands a broader vision, capabilities in critical thinking and logical deduction without which we cannot have constructive progress.

~Li Ka-shing

          Knowledge with practice leads to skills; skills applied in a variety situations can lead to mastery of one's craft. But the true master can bend with the changes and adapt to new frameworks. Because of the image of dots, the Via card ('Way') might appear to imply that the journey on this path is a straight and orderly one. Yet life is diverse, complicated and messy - everything but linear. Being willing to be open to wider perspectives and broader experiences can help us keep making progress even if it isn't in a straight line.

Pause, Preen then Proceed with Wisdom

From the Tarot of the Master, the World; from the Paracelsus Oracle, Via:

          The World always feels like a long-held breath is finally released, and there is both a mix of ease and elation. With completion there is closure (like Death), but with the World it is because choice and effort have brought about this conclusion. The fixed signs of the Leo and Taurus bear banners with the seasons on them, while Aquarius and Scorpio hold a wreath of fruiting and flowering plants. It is harvest time, but like all seasons, it won't last forever. Via literally means 'way,' as in a path toward a destination. It seems appropriate since the lovely lady in the wreath can't stand on that stage forever. The deck also adds the keyword 'wisdom' to this card, suggesting that it would be wise to be guided by prudence and the experiences of others before taking off down that new road.

Learn all you can from the mistakes of others. You won't have time to make them all yourself. 

~Alfred Sheinwold

Decomposition

From the Wild Unknown Tarot, the Ten of Swords:

We had a few days of severe storms recently, and the high winds brought down some huge pine limbs that are going to require a chain saw.  Unfortunately as I was surveying the storm damage, I also found a few dead animals (squirrels) as well.  In just a few hours time, various bugs and insects had begun feeding on the bodies.  And though such scenes may bring a "Ewww!" response from most,  these ecological recyclers play an important part in breaking down organic matter.  Whether plant or animal, what is eaten and digested leaves behind important minerals and nutrients that enrich the soil.  This graphic image tells me there are thoughts and beliefs I hold that need to go through the process of decomposition.  What is useful will be left behind, allowing me to plant and grow some new ideas.

The roll of the geomancy sticks this morning created the figure "Via:"

Via is Latin for "way" and indicates a life path or journey.  It is associated with the waxing moon - when the amount of illumination on the moon is increasing.  This part of the cycle reminds me of stumbling around in a dark forest and then suddenly having a light appear to see by.  Taken with the Ten of Swords above, it appears I must first break down my ideas (leaving only what is beneficial), then wait for clarity (illumination).  This progression will allow me to clearly see the path I should take.