Purity vs. Preconceptions

From the Tarot of Durer, the Star:

Everything is pure for the pure.

The phrase on this card puzzled me at first, but then I thought of the story (from the Zen or Taoist tradition) about two men who visited the same city for the first time.  The first man was a cynical grump, and the second fellow a happy-go-lucky sort.  Later when they described the town to their teacher, the first man spoke of how unfriendly the residents were while the other told of how kind the citizens were.  The tale encourages me to check my expectations and preconceived ideas at the door.  If I go into a situation or group with an open mind and heart, I'm much more likely to have a positive experience.  It I go in with a stinky attitude, the smell of rotten eggs is sure to follow.  The Star speaks of healing and hope; if I'm going to enjoy either of these, I must clean out my head and heart first.

From the Philosopher's Stone deck comes the card "Stop:"

Nothing quite says "stillness" like a big, heavy boulder.  I am good at reacting to situations and can do well being proactive before something even happens, but I'm not very good at waiting.  It is my nature to push, pull and shove to create what I want.  But the peacefulness of the Star above and this huge rock tell me it is time to park my behind, close my mouth, tuck my hands in my pockets, and listen with no agenda or expectations.  There's no telling what I'll learn with a beginner's mind in place.

Dharma Dance

From the Tarot of Durer, Justice:

 

There's a (right) way to do things.

Maybe it was noticing the sword of Justice was replaced with an apple (symbolic of what is healthy and beneficial), but the term dharma came to mind.  Until studying Hindu philosophy, I thought dharma (often translated as "duty") was some sort of fun-draining dogma.  Actually it is a natural law that keeps everything in perfect balance.  Everyone plays their part to help with this, and at different times in our life, our responsibilities change to maintain this equilibrium.  Though it gives life order, it has nothing to do with religion, but involves serving oneself and others.  It enhances life for the greater good, moving with the natural flow of the universe.  But the chains on the arms of Justice remind me she can't move beyond what is natural - imbalance will be righted, one way or another.  Today I must become an objective observer.  Am I trying to channel this flow to selfishly meet my own desires while ignoring other duties? 

From the Philosopher's Stone deck this morning comes "Power:"

 

The head of a mallet that was going to be used to crush a block of stone has itself been sliced into pieces.  I get so caught up in wanting to "change the world," yet feel powerless to do so.  Like the mallet, I find myself up against corporations, organizations, and public opinions that crack my resolve with no effort.  But like the huge slice that has plowed through both the stone and the mallet, there are natural laws - a greater power - that will bring things back into balance all on its own.  Like the dog serenely sleeping under the feet of Justice, I should relax in the knowledge that all will be well.