Wise Choices

From the Llewellyn Tarot, Temperance; from the Beasts of Albion, Weasel:

Craving creates tunnel vision: We see only what we yearn for. Mindfulness allows us to see that and much more, giving us the choice not to act on our desires. 

—Joan Duncan Oliver

According to legend, Cantre'r Gwaelod was a low-lying, fertile land fortified against the sea by a dyke with a series of sluice gates that were opened at low tide to drain the land. Seithennin (now known with the subtitle "of the feeble mind") - a drunkard and carouser - was responsible for the sluices. In the first version of the tale, he got drunk and failed to open the gates, flooding the village. In another, he forced himself on the well's guardian, and as a retaliation, the well overflowed and consumed the land. Temperance is a reminder that desires without discernment rarely cultivate good fortune. Weasel has a reputation as a fierce, agile and efficient hunter. He is the "Holder of the Strength of Mind;" the ability to help us focus the mind can help us overcome challenges and avoid dire situations. 

Scars and Sharp Teeth

From the Llewellyn Tarot, the Nine of Wands:

Sometimes it's the scars that remind you that you survived. ~ Ashley Wallis

Here is the seasoned warrior - the staffs behind him are mementos of battles fought and won. The sling on his arm and bandage on his head show that he's had to pay a price for his successes, but the wisdom he's learned through his experiences has been worth it. He knows there are a few more challenges on the horizon, so he won't let down his guard just yet. This soldier encourages me to draw on my past, remembering what worked well and what didn't, as I deal with the challenges and responsibilities of the day.

From the Beasts of Albion deck comes the "Weasel:"

I know some may associate Weasel with being sneaky and underhanded, but I agree with Gray that it should be remembered for its boldness and agility in attacking prey much larger than its own size. She gives it the title "Holder of the Strength of Mind." With the card above, I am reminded people may try to use manipulation and intimidation to get what they want. Weasel assures me I have what it takes not to be taken advantage of - all I need to do is flash my scars and show them my sharp teeth.

Hunting for the Hidden

From the Prairie Tarot, the Page of Cups:

I'm sure I just heard an "Aw shucks" from this guy, and that he is blushing beneath the brim of his hat.  He is as sweet as he seems with no hidden agendas.  He loves surprising others with small deeds of kindness and doesn't mind giving someone a hug if he or she needs one.  This Page's perceptions are channeled through how he feels, both emotionally and intuitively.  He can read a group or an individual without any words being spoken.  However, he is a bit of an emotional sponge and needs to be careful he doesn't soak up too much of that water rushing around him, as he tends to take things too personally at times.

From the Medicine Cards comes "Weasel:"

A silent observer with an excellent sense of smell, Weasel is a skillful hunter whose long, lean body enables him to follow and track his prey in narrow places.  Weasel's lesson is in seeking what is hidden and trusting one's senses, then using this information for good purposes.  I have one friend who will call me up and talk for two hours nonstop, telling me all about her latest problems and resentments.  Another friend keeps her feelings and worries mostly to herself, and I have to listen carefully and watch for subtle clues that all is not well.  The Page above and Weasel remind me that there may be someone in need of a small kindness today, but I will have to use my "hunting" skills to find them.