Seeker's Journey

It's In The Cards

2011-02-25T07:54:00.000-08:00

DAILY DRAW

February 24, 2011

THEME: Four of Cups

This is very interesting. I have felt I am resisting my 'routine,' one which I set in place. I am unsure why I would do this. Though, I suspect it is my nature. The question arises: If something is my nature, do I follow it? I feel, having begun studying the Way as Pema Chodron discusses in her books [The Path of the Spiritual Warrior - A Shambhala Teaching] of approaching life, that the first step is to study myself. To learn [about] myself. This theme reflects who I am and could begin or be part of the information which brings me face to face with myself. No judgment; just seeing.

GUIDE: Eight of Wands

Great energy awaits my use, even as I am uncertain of where or how to spend it. Being aware is enough. Remember, part of the journey is to observe the energy of the feelings.

MEDITATION: Five of Wands

Struggle; part and parcel of life. This is specific to the struggle to idenfify myself - to define who I am.

SHADOW CARD: The Hermit

The foundation speaks to the realm of inner work. The emotions, energy and struggle to define the path. The need to decide on what my path should look like. Like life, the way shifts constantly. Again, who I am is the key to successfully navigating the 'rocky road' of living.

2011-02-14T10:56:00.000-08:00

DAILY DRAW

Were I to think back a year ago today, usually I wouldn't remember many specifics. While it is a day of the celebration of my love life; of my marriage, it also is the day I joined AT! So it is also my anniversary. My reading has the singular focus on the former, but I can also see where tradition plays quite a role in what the past year has brought into my life; a tradition which, now, I can claim as my own.

THEME:   The Hierophant

Today is a day of traditions. It is a day when all celebrate love and each couple celebrates with their personal traditions which they have developed over time. Celebrate our love with our traditions.

GUIDE:    Page of Wands

The energy is good today; the day is a vacation from the daily world. Let love guide how our energy is used.

MEDITATION:    Three of Wands

Today, in each moment, is where our love florishes. Look toward the rewards which loving affords. Rejoice in the love and how that makes the day feel.

SHADOW CARD:   Transformation

Love is one of the great transformers. This is the foundation of the meaning of today: How our love transforms us constantly.

Advice on Helping Others

2011-02-11T08:43:00.000-08:00

DAILY DRAW

THEME:   The Hanged Man

To help others, I must seek to thinking as they do. Thus, be flexible in how I see the situations. New perspectives will expand my understanding of things as they currently are and what must be done to help change those things which will only harm us in the long run.

GUIDE:   Seven of Wands

Allow my approach to be open and ready for all eventualities. Maintain a strong energy front.

MEDITATION: Page of Wands

Seek to work with energy conservation. Learn to control the way I do things so I can be the greatest help when needed.

SHADOW CARD:   The Star

Strive for balance between the practical and the Spiritual in my work. Intuition will be a great ally.

I'm Back!

2011-02-10T05:57:00.000-08:00

DAILY DRAW

I did a reading last night about my feelings with not doing a daily draw. I was going thru a withdrawal, and I wanted to return. During the time when I was trying to work with one card a week, I began working with sitting meditation. The result of the reading last night showed me how the two traditions can work together, and are, in fact, very useful to each other. Today's draw speaks directly to this decision.

THEME:   Six of Wands

This is about coming back to a 'way' of doing; returning in triumph and it is also about moving forward with my work.

GUIDE:   Two of Swords

There may be residual confusion about the process, but remaining balanced will help me to 'see' my way through, with my inner sense - intuition.

MEDITATION:    Eight of Wands

The energy from the excitement of this return is enhanced as doors open and opportunities present themselves. THIS is like the 'opening - out breath' stage of Tonglen. It is vast, like the universe. Use this as my guide in meditation.

SHADOW CARD   Four of Swords
The foundation is about resting the mind - letting go of the heaviness of thought during meditation. This affords my work in sitting meditation to go forth.

Money Makes The World Go Around

2011-02-06T07:47:00.000-08:00

WEEKLY REFLECTION

Four of Pentacles

My first meeting with this card was my first indication that all was not right in the Peaceful Kingdom. But it has many sides, and I have seen quite a lot more since.
Looking at the image I see an old man sitting, coveting one thing, seeking to gather as much of it as he can. This represents clinging to something to the exclusion of all else.

The Pentacles are about work, and Spiritual endeavor; about the Earth, and things in the external world; the idea of abundance.

FOURS represent structure, stability, foundation, work, reality, organization, manifestation. Practical attainment, tangible results, crystalization, coagulation. Stagnation, logic, reason. Power and control. Discipline. The material world and the physical universe.

Corresponding Major Arcana

The Emperor

The Four of Pentacles is about maintaining Status Quo. The ideas of possession of things, balanced budget, financial security, are key words for this card. Beware of being too conservative. Fear of taking risks that a person may lose what they have comes into play here. Learn to delegate rather than doing everything yourself.
Fours can also represent a person who is an 'emotional black hole,' seeking affection, attention, all things from those around them, but rarely giving in return.

It seems I have a lot to work with this week.
As CF would say, 'Remind you of anyone?'

One Week At A Time

2011-02-01T04:36:00.000-08:00

ALL THINGS IN MODERATION

I had not put together the whole of the 'new adventures in reading,' when I decided to change. I suppose a day at a time will be the real guide. Should I need to draw another card before a week is up, then I will. But I think, to really learn about the cards, Temperance for a week [especially these days] will serve the better good.

I think sitting and working with a card for a week will allow me to get a better sense of the true meaning of the word, and the way it can impact my daily routine. I am combining [or hope to] my draw with beginning 'sitting meditation.' So Temperance begins the new approach.

In truth, it is a perfect card for this time. Between the weather's constant assault, and the pending move to the Apple Orchard District, to help care for my father, I'd say, keeping the idea of Temperance in my mind will benefit my sanity as well as allowing me to replenish my energy.

It also makes it easier for me to really see when and where I am not Temperate. I seek not to judge myself, but simply to observe what pushes my buttons. Unfortunately (is it?) it seems almost everything pushes them 'in these austere and uncertain days.'

The plan will be to draw on Sunday morning, and work with each card for a week. The question is whether I should work just with the Majors for now, or with the whole deck. Perhaps, this is another question for the cards?

The New Reading Way

2011-01-29T08:46:00.000-08:00

Today I decided that the 'theme' Daily Reading was not helping me right now. So I asked the cards what type of daily reading would be best for me right now. I was thinking in terms of spreads, numbers of cards to work with. This was done with the same kind of 4 card (3 plus shadow) spread I used with the Theme/Guide/Meditation/Shadow cards.

This is what the cards told me today:

CARD ONE The Hermit

This speaks of using the cards from a meditative perspective. Consider a single card draw to contemplate throughout the day.

[of course, this leaves me with certain cards that may have me running around like a chicken without a head].

CARD TWO Nine of Swords

This guides me to not feed into my fears and cause greater difficulty. Consider the cards from more than just the 'image.' This is a card from the NINE perspective. What does Nine mean to me?

Spirituality comes to mind first. In 'Plain and Simple' nines can indicate: near the end of a phase; summing up before completion of a cycle. Preparation for the transition. Dreams. Bringing matters to a close. Creative Energy. Compassion, wisdom, understanding, service, mysticism, courage, and mastery. Corresponding Major: THE HERMIT.

CARD THREE Queen of Cups

The good, and loving mother. Queens are mother figures; mature women: myself - The Crone Joan. Personal Power. Represent a new level of understanding and awareness.

Situations and Advice of Queens:

This Queen offers the opportunity to turn inward and examine feelings about a matter. My hunches and intuition are reliable guides. Pay special attention to dreams and psychic perceptions.

Key words: Emotions, sensitivity, otherworldliness, intuition, perception, choice based on sincere feelings. Imagination. Remembrances. Visions. Dreams, kindness, psychic ability, empathy, Sixth Sense, sympathy, affection. Introspection, artistic creativity. Gentleness. Mystery. Occult interests. Prophecy, divination, mysticism, psychology, counseling. Atmosphere. Love of music and art. Generous. Stirrings of the heart.

CARD FOUR - SHADOW CARD Five of Swords

Cunning, slyness, and Trickster. Competitive, cocky. Plays outside the rules. Wins at all costs. Beware the aspects of self that have a different agenda than the 'Driver.' Once aware of their presence, my point of view can turn to use their energy.

WHAT'S THAT MEAN?

With the exception of The Hermit and the Five of Swords [interesting slip, calling it the Five of Words... hmmmm], I've taken the information from the PLAIN and SIMPLE book, and written down the keys and situational advice. Looking at the information of the Nine of Swords [the realm of thought] and the Queen of Cups [the realm of emotions], using the first card as the motif, with the others as clarifiers, in this case, the single card as a meditation is a good way to work with and learn more about the cards. The Hermit is about taking time to consider, contemplate, and examine at a greater depth, a single idea, matter, or problem, or question.

The nines, in this case, speak of bringing the Three Card Theme/Guide/Meditation plus Shadow card readings to a completion for the time being. The new cycle begins.

The Queen confirms the opportunity of turning inward to examine feelings, in particular, about the card of the day.

The Five of Swords brings in the 'be aware' aspect of how any work will still have those trickster parts that may be distracting, confounding, but also will shed light on a specific pot hole.

Perhaps the next step is to consider choosing the card from a fanned layout, rather than off the top of the deck. The answer may be 'in the cards.'

Rabbit Medicine

2011-01-25T05:55:00.000-08:00

DAILY DRAW

Rabbit Medicine

Today I asked a question of what message Rabbit brings me, since I saw a rabbit at dusk on the 22nd of January. I looked for information on Rabbit Medicine, and now I seek to understand how Rabbit Medicine is guiding me here and now.

THEME: Strength

This speaks of the gentle, loving strength of no-action, to understand the dynamics of the situation (which is likely our move to the Apple Orchard District).

GUIDE: Nine of Swords

Do not fear no-action. It does not help move a situation forward. Fretting only wastes energy unnecessarily, and does not add to how to use the time contructively (getting medic alert, for instance, and gathering other information needed).

MEDITATION: Four of Wands

This is also part of the dance of life. Contemplate the structure of things (use of energy for example) so there is balance between work and rest.

SHADOW CARD: Four of Swords

Rest is clarified for the Meditation. Use the cycle of no-action to build up reserves of energy. The body and mind need this kind of break. Seek the greatest way to rest for the work ahead.

Watch and Wait

2011-01-24T06:22:00.000-08:00

DAILY DRAW

THEME: Two of Wands

My gaze is drawn to the red rim of his hat, noting that he is looking out toward the world. My eye is then caught by the globe held in his hand. This speaks of having the courage to wait and watch; to take the time to balance my energy. It is a time to practice being in each moment as it flows by.

GUIDE: Seven of Cups

As I wait, I can consider how I will feel about each moment; consider the options which are possible in each moment. Will I react to feeling how I always feel in certain situations? Will I cling to certain beliefs about an event? There is always choice.

MEDITATION: King of Cups

Seeking to accept a feeling about something, but to be willing to let it go after observing it, acknowledging it, is the way of the Spiritual Warrior. Contemplate the embrace of accepting continual change, while remaining still within.

SHADOW CARD: Page of Cups

Remain curious. This is the stance of the Spiritual Warrior. Learn my own emotions.

2011-01-22T13:40:00.000-08:00

DAILY DRAW

In the middle of the night, awake, and unable to work out some problems, I did a full celtic cross reading. At the 'where I am right now' position, the TEMPTATION [devil] card came up. So this morning, I did my daily draw with the question, 'what is my temptation?' in mind, while shuffling.

THEME: The Hermit

It would be my greatest tendancy to disappear - to step back away from life, but not into inner work; rather into another part of myself - an other - who does not have my responsibilities.

OR:

To pretend that I am spiritual?

GUIDE: Nine of Wands

Seek not to feel that I am wounded and that I stand between rounds of a battle. Spending time looking toward the future for any reason takes me out of being in THIS moment, and much is missed when my mind and energy is else where.

MEDITATION: Six of Swords

Contemplate the journey in the here and now - do not cling to victories of the past - nor to the losses; and do not think that I know what lies ahead, either. Be cognisant of who I am and what I think and feel right now, and then let it go as I open into the next moment.

SHADOW CARD: The Tower
That was right on my mind as should being in this reading. This is an extreme time of upheaval. Seek not to spend time moping over any moment, or I'll miss the present moment, that can teach me how to get through it all.

Even as we are tumbled from the heights of our santuary, the light is released from the darkness in which we'd been living in that very moment. Lean into the upheaval. Seek to accept the experience and then the next one, and the one after that.

2011-01-14T05:53:00.000-08:00

DAILY DRAW

THEME: The Chariot

For forward movement to gain the best results, find a balance between all those involved. Seek harmonious negotiations and approach aspects creatively.

GUIDE: Page of Wands

Energy conservation in any activity takes practice. Controlling the amount of Energy coming in and going out is akin to dieting; but the Energy needed to go forth physically is conserved differently than Energy needed on an emotional and mental level. Study the various way the whole being uses energy.

MEDITATION: Three of Swords

Sometimes it is important to cut to the heart of the matter. Consider how to diplomatically maneuver thinking in such a way as to achieve the goals, but be frank about the 'heart' of the matter.

SHADOW CARD: Six of Pentacles

Remember that all things done in concert with others require a give and take. Be generous with praise to encourage forward movement.

A Vacation

2011-01-13T05:26:00.000-08:00

DAILY DRAW

THEME: Four of Wands

Today is about my lover and me. We celebrate time together; a quiet time just for us. This is a 'mini' vacation, where we do what we want and be who we are; not worrying about the world outside.

GUIDE: Two of Cups

I am guided to renew the togetherness of my lover and myself; to toast our vacation and to toast the freedom to be and do what WE want.

MEDITATION: Page of Pentacles

With time off from outside considerations, I can contemplate my inner journey, put into motion the things I've been thinking about doing. This is a day to begin and/or resume work on the goals I have in mind for my inner journey.

SHADOW CARD: Ten of Cups

This is about the family I have built, as opposed to the family into which I was born. Dream more about the way things will be when we are just us.

WHAT'S THAT MEAN?

Danace the dance of life with my lover and life's companion. Take time for my own inner work, and concentrate on continuing to create the perfect way of life.

Reinventing the Wheel

2011-01-11T09:02:00.000-08:00

DAILY DRAW

THEME: Wheel of Fortune

Most days bring many feelings, and so, too, will this day. There are many volatile situations at this time. Work not to get stuck in any one spot.

GUIDE: The Star

The Star is my Guide today, and speaks about honoring my path. Balance myself between the mundance and the Spiritual Dance. Use all my senses for a fuller experience of life and respect myself and others for we are all connected.

MEDITATION: Six of Swords

Move forward in thinking about the plans and readying myself so the action which follows thought will keep things in motion, going in the right direction. Consider the best way to achieve the plan.

SHADOW CARD: Seven of Pentacles

As I progress, be sure to take a moment here and there to assess the way things are moving. Be alert for obstacles and for pitt falls and adjust my plans accordingly.

Time Out

2011-01-10T06:42:00.000-08:00

DAILY DRAW

THEME: Nine of Wands

I take a breather today so I can resume the struggle tomorrow. This is about stepping back and keeping still. It is readying myself for the 'next round;' Perhpas stratagizing and considering what needs to be done, and thinking of better, more efficient ways to do it.

GUIDE: Temptation

When I feel tempted to hide from what life is giving me, turn toward what things may come instead of turning away from them. Lean in to it, and accept it and find that soft tenderness in the fear, or the anger, or whatever I might be feeling or thinking about it.

MEDITATION: King of Pentacles

Consider the idea of making myself at home in all situations, with all thoughts and feelings, working with that which I least want. Recreate it from the big and monsterous thing it appears to be, to a small and loving and cuddly 'thing.'

SHADOW CARD Knight of Cups

Let love be my guide. Move into all moments with an open heart and an open mind.

Further Thoughts

As I was laying out the cards this morning, I suddenly realized that I was unsure if I'd actually pulled the shadow card from the bottom of the deck or if it had also been from the top of the deck.

Thus, after I looked at each card, and wrote about it, I also looked at what I'd laid down 'thinking' it was the shadow card, but not paying attention and just pulling it from the top.

The Star brings her influence to me, urging me to experience everything with all five senses. Open myself up (as the King recommends) to every moment.

In This Moment

2011-01-08T05:45:00.000-08:00

DAILY DRAW

THEME: Queen of Cups

Be a compasionate being, especially with myself. Let my heart shine through in what must be done. Find the soothing and quiet places when I need to step back to take a breather.

GUIDE: Strength

The greatest kind of strength is the soft and tender strength. Approach that which needs to be tamed (even within myself) with love and compassion.

MEDITATION: Eight of Pentacles

Focus on the task in each moment. Live in the moment and not in what I believe lies ahead, nor in the past. Be Here Now!

SHADOW CARD: The Magician

Work to master the moment. The most efficient way to learn is to be balanced and be present to the the moment. Wasting energy on an unknown future, or on a past which no longer serves our progress, robs us of this moment.

Some interesting things

I note that there are two eights and a one. Eight and eight equals 16, and 16 plus 1 equal 17, which when reduced is 8. The Eights are the place to seek clarification.

How To Make Friends and Influence Myself

2011-01-04T06:27:00.000-08:00

DAILY DRAW

Today, within the pages of the book I am reading, there was a recommendation to make good friends with myself. Again, I am faced with how do I do this? I used my daily draw for this question.

THEME: The Hermit - 9

It begins with going within. Shine a light upon my inner world and examine myself, but without judgement. Observe myself in all aspects and identify all my feelings, thoughts, attitudes. Don't judge them, but ask myself if they are necessary and ask myself why and why not, and then move on.

GUIDE: Ten of Wands

When looking within, seek not to do this while carrying the worries and thoughts of the day with me. Seek not to be distracted by other things. Sit when I have the time to look at what I have found. Make a list of my thoughts, feelings, and attitudes, ways and actions, and then sit later and go over the list to understand them. Remember that carrying outer burdens while doing this exercise will not allow me to give complete attention to my task. Let go of burdens for this time and task.

MEDITATION: Two of Wands

Contemplation for this exercise require balance between doing and keeping still and waiting and watching.

SHADOW CARD: Six of Pentacles

The foundation for this requires time be taken. Give myself time. Put off other leisure things to do this. However, remember the entire process happens not just in meditation, but in each moment. Just observe, then sit and consider what information I have gathered about myself.

Clinging 101

2011-01-02T08:02:00.000-08:00

DAILY DRAW

THEME: Four of Pentacles

Clinging 101. Today I will find people [myself included] tending to cling to the thoughts, situations, and feelings of the past year. Clinging to things keeps me from living in THIS moment. A Quest goes nowhere if I remain mired in the moments of yester year. Enough is enough of this goblin mud!

GUIDE: Six of Wands

Move forward, but don't forget to bring your mind with you. Mindful living is the only way to progress.

MEDITATION: Page of Pentacles

Contemplate upon what I wish to achieve. Envision the way to achieve it, then proceed.

SHADOW CARD: Six of Swords

The foundation is the realm of thought. Without clinging to the specifics, journey forth with lessons of the steps before this one guiding and lighting the way.

WHAT'S THAT MEAN

Holding onto the past will not afford forward movement. Consider what is to be done and allow lessons learned to guide me.

Endings and Beginnings

2011-01-01T08:51:00.000-08:00

DAILY DRAW
1/1/11

THEME: Ten of Wands

A good cautionary word to begin the year: beware of over burdening myself, trying to take care of everything at one time; trying to rush to put all my New Year's ducks in a row. As in all things, there will be times when I have too much coming in to handle the whole load, especially by myself. We seek to enter the new year, leaving the old, unnecessary things behind. Still, there are things that do carry over, simply due to the fact that they are unfinished, and all things have a beginning, middle and an end. Not everything ends on a schedule. Life has its own flow which does not follow the calendar of our species.

GUIDE: Six of Cups

I am being given a gift on this day: a chance to see things differently; to feel differently about the many things I have been dealing with; to not see them as burdens but as part of the Quest. I have awakened to find I've been on it from the start.

MEDITATION: Seven of Cups

This is a good day to reflect upon what I want to do when each moment arrives. It is my choice how to react. Dream of how I want to BE and then seek to BECOME.

SHADOW CARD: Ten of Cups

I want everyone to have what they need and want, but each person is responsible for creating their own happiness. I tend to mine, and each 'other' must tend to theirs. I am not responsible for how someone else chooses to react to life.

WHAT'S THAT MEAN?

I head into the new year with some of the burdens of last year, as they are part and parcel of the natural flow of life. I am given the opportunity to choose what I want, and let go of that which does not serve me personally, nor the better good. Consider what I want, to create a better way of living.

It is interesting that the reading begins and ends with a TEN. Ten speaks of endings, which of course flows into the next beginning... reduced they are natural beginnings. I note that in the beginning there are burdens, but these evolve to become the perfect ending, as each thing is worked out, or completed, and we can sit happily in our rockers on the porch, looking out at the world, allowing it to go by, while we take 'ten' to enjoy the roses.

Face Your Fear!

2010-12-30T09:31:00.000-08:00

DAILY DRAW

With a lot of turmoil surrounding me lately, I've been finding the old phobic fear returns with greater frequence; disaster thinking has become a wild horse; the bull in the china shop of my mind. Thus, I shuffled with the request that the cards 'pleae advise me how to battle the fear.' What I needed was a reminder of how to get back with my panic management program.

THEME: King of Swords

What a happy sight. The first course of action... the theme is always to 'turn and face' my fears, and so the king brings this very message to me. The arena of fear is in the realm of thought, so that is where I must make/take my stand.

GUIDE: Six of Cups

First thought: Give myself a break. The fear mongers are of my creation, thus I can go back to the time beffore they were born, and reinvent my life, and my world without the phobic fear. Think positively about that which the fears seek to trick me into believing. Uncreate what I have crated. Rewrite this part of the story.

MEDITATION: Knight of Pentacles

Another happy sight. So tried and true, and stable in his approach, the knight speaks of the fact that the mind is fertile ground. Pull up the weeds [that are the work of fear] and sow the seeds of positive thinking. Before planting my seeds, however, meditate and envision what I want to grow, then work hard [take care of myself] to see the crop of positivity begin to sprout, and finally grow into the flowers of good health, and the fruits of healing.

SHADOW CARD: Six of Swords

The foundation is now built upon succeeding in my current circumstance. This is a challenge, and it will be a difficult road to walk, because life does not stop while I am gathering my reserves.

WHAT'S THAT MEAN?

Face my fears and stand my ground. Don't be so hard on myself and recreate my life without the phobic aspect of fear. Plant the seeds of positive thinking and envision success. All struggles are a rite of passage.

2010-12-25T08:50:00.000-08:00

DAILY DRAW

With the thought that I know we will have to move to the apple orchard at some point, I posed the question of how soon should we move over there?

THEME: Wheel of Fortune

Considering the question, it looks like it will depend on when I FEEL we should, when I feel it is necessary. It will be a matter first of all, of how quickly we can get the place ready for us. It will also depend upon the information we get from the doctor about 'Staging.'

GUIDE: Six of Cups

Giving time, in my usual way, may suffice for now. Everything is based on need. Balance the decision between need for it, and the reality of how much more difficult it will be when the real winter weather sets in. Everything takes time. Be mindful of all aspects.

MEDITATION: The Hermit [I actually saw this card coming up]

Take time to sit and consider what is BEST. Think about all the aspects of the situation. To make a decision based on reality, there needs to be all pertinent information available.

SHADOW CARD: Eight of Wands

Remember that great energy reserves will be needed for the duration. What will be the best for all, but most important is what will allow the caregiver to be able to function at optimum throughout this time.

WHAT'S THAT MEAN

With information as guide, I will know when it FEELS right to move. Watch for signs from all factions and seek what is realistic and think it out carefully. Take it one day at a time. Remember, how much energy will be needed for everything.

Be Here Now

2010-12-24T06:22:00.001-08:00

DAILY DRAW

THEME: Queen of Wands

Put my best face forward. Don't be or seem over zealous, nor too dour. Keep incidentals light. Be welcoming, warm, passionate, generoug with praise especially. While being energetic, be also practical. Be nurturing, not fixing.

GUIDE: The Lovers

Be loving and supportive. Use my intuition to take the steps needed to make a house a home. Create balance.

MEDITATION: Three of Swords

While the meaning of the situation is heartbreaking, especially for my father, as well as for me, seek to live in the moment not in the future where the outcome is. Creat a normal atmosphere. Threat him normally, not like an invalid.

SHADOW CARD: The Magician

Create a magical atmosphere. Deal only with what is currently known, and strive for master of the moment, not of what lies ahead.

WHAT'S THAT MEAN

Maintain a normal aire. Bring love and balance to each moment. Even knowing this situation will be heartbreaking, live in the now not in the then. Bring magic to the moment.

Daily Draw

2010-12-17T09:07:00.000-08:00

DAILY DRAW

Thinking about why I don't always follow thru with plans for inner work.

THEME: The Moon

The hidden things which are camophlaged by the seen and by the darkness, are those which might be where the answer lies. There are many aspects in all of us. We are as wild as we are tame. Integration is part of the resolutioin, but integration also means giving voice to all parts; it does not mean elimination of any aspect - just the harmonious blending of all. The ripples of my actions speak of the inner realm. Look within. Understand the things I find there. Use my journal to sort through what I find. As without, so within. Can work be done in a cluttered house? If all is needed, then seek balance.

GUIDE: Six of Cups

Give yourself a 'break.' Don't be so hard on yourself. Seek also to make friends within. Find where things are at odds and strive to resolve differences. Make the inner world a happy home.

MEDITATION: Three of Pentacles

There is work to be done inside, before the inner work can successfully begin. Pay close attention to the details of the inner structure, and work to bring things to the order needed to accomplish my inner work. Mastery of the self is the key and the roadmap.

SHADOW CARD: Ten of Swords

Don't want to sabotage your work? Then don't stab yourself in the back. Find the CENTER. It isn't the 'others' which cause the block, but the voice which chides, complains, and wastes precious time. It is time to make a new beginning. End the strife, and live your life.

The Peaceful Kingdom To The Rescue

2010-12-15T07:33:00.000-08:00

DAILY DRAW

I began shuffling with the question, 'what would help me manifest my dedication to my path more concisely?'

THEME: Nine of Pentacles

This is a day for appreciating what I have that I worked to manifest. Look at my life and see the goodness I have created for myself and for others. Today I celebrate myself.

GUIDE: Queen of Pentacles

Meditation of the specifics which I would like to bring into my life for greater abundance, is an important part of the process of manifesting. Find the stillness within. This is the place where that which I seek will become more apparent. Give time to myself for contemplation of my inner work.

MEDITATION: Four of Pentacles

Note what I cling to and reflect upon how it helps or hinders my work and progress. Is each thing something which I should retain? What quality causes me to let go of things which might help me, and conversely, to hold onto things which hinder my way?

SHADOW CARD: Knight of Pentacles

To move forward and live more beautifully, begin from the stillness. Stop or pause before taking action. Consider ways which will achieve the greatest inner growth and success.

WHAT'S THAT MEAN?

Today I celebrate my life, and its goodness. Consider taking time to sit and reflect the things I must do to achieve my goals. Meditate upon the things to which I cling and why. To move forward do so from stillness; from my Center.

The Way of Transmutation

2010-12-13T08:14:00.000-08:00

DAILY DRAW

THEME: Three of Pentacles

The way of mastery is to learn, but what is learned needs to be put into action. Move slowly, thoughtfully, and with great focus in each thing being done. Mindfulness is key. Become that which I am doing.

GUIDE: Page of Wands

I am reminded to begin (or continue) to truly learn about energy... to feel how energy manifests in every way. Observe where it is in my every movement, and feel it as well as just seeing it manifesting. Note its highs and lows [fluctuations], and begin to see what affects it, and what it affects and in what ways.

MEDITATION: Two of Cups

Consider the relationships of the elements and how they work together. Find the center of each moment when everything is in perfect balance.

SHADOW CARD: King of Wands

Control is one aspect of centering. Conservation and creation are others. Seek to find the sequences and the variations.

WHAT'S THAT MEAN?

See the process of work and observing is part, but being is the other part. Seek balance between control and conservation, as well as creation. Be moderate.

Thinking, and feeling, and doing simply lead to BEING which is the goal.

Components of a Quest

2010-12-11T08:18:00.000-08:00

DAILY DRAW

I shuffled this morning with the thought about 'how will the Quest play out' and consequently, thinking about how to create a spread to make the moves in each day of the Quest. Do I need to? Why do I need to... which of course are all questions simply for a reading. But the first part is where my head was at while shuffling. Thus, the following cards speak to me.

THEME: Knight of Cups

The way to proceed in each day is to go with an open heart and an open mind. This is something I already seek within the time of readings. Bring this to my every moment, in every day. Begin as if each day and each moment is a new day and moment, but instead of seeing it as a matter of 'with no mistakes in it,' see it simply as a new day/moment for fresh perspectives, and for receiving information and life's events with an open mind and an open heart. Seek to accept each experience, and learn from each one.

GUIDE: The Hanged Man

This is an agreement of the theme. See things from each side; from all sides. Keep a record of the various perspectives. This will be, and in fact, is part of the journey AND the journal.

MEDITATION Two of Cups

Balance and comradery - sharing the journey and my thoughts with my companions in this Quest (Alex, Dad, Journals). The Process needs witnessing

SHADOW CARD: Page of Cups

I see the young lass is insisting upon being part of this, and I've considered the message she is seeking to bring to me, and decided that she actually IS me (represents me), at least in part. I am the reason; the foundation for the Quest. This will play out because of me and all aspects will be MY creation. Perhaps, she is little girl lost?

WHAT'S THAT MEAN?

Move forth with an open mind and an open heart. See all moments from different perspectives. Maintain balance and share with travel companions. This is founded on me and finding that inner Self is where the Paradigm Passage is. Thus, this is a search for Self. Interesting.

Good Vibrations

2010-12-10T08:34:00.000-08:00

DAILY DRAW

My thought while shuffling was "Bring me guidance for today."

THEME: King of Cups

Seek to calm myself in the midst of chaos. Enhance my inner calm, as the quote goes. Let love guide me through the moments of the day.

GUIDE: Four of Wands

Seek to be centered in the dance of life today. Stop, close my eyes, and follow my breath to bring myself back to the moment. Seek to look at times as good, and to be bulstered by what I have now, not to go astray into the land of what I have lost or fear I will lose.

MEDITATION: Six of Wands

Each moment should be a celebration of life, of the abundance I have here and now. Move forward with joy in my heart for this is what has made this moment possible.

SHADOW CARD: Ten of Cups

Even in the hard times remember what goodness I have. The connections are what allow love to flow.

WHAT'S THAT MEAN?:

Emotional Energy rules the day. The cups best emotions surround the wands celebratory energy. Make the day a party. In sequence: The King of Cups begins (the first and best of the Emotional Realm). At the other end is the Ten of Cups, the best of the suit; completeness, all that is great in this realm. The Sandwich filling is the four of wands and the six of wands. These two wands equal 10, which lead up to the 10 of Cups... The equation is the Energy of Love.

Round and Round She Goes

2010-12-09T15:46:00.000-08:00

DAILY DRAW

While shuffling, I was seeking to look at how I could more effectively control my negative emotions.

THEME: Justice

Be fair minded in relating to others. Remain balanced.

GUIDE: Page of Cups

Another visit from the Page (daughter) of Cups. Be in the moment. Live in the here and now. Release ego-past and don't live in ego-future. If negative emotions rise to the surface at 'inappropriate times' seek to keep the feelings in check, and find ways to release them later.

MEDITATION: King of Swords

Don't confuse thought with emotion. Don't let too much build up. Learn about strategy and negotiations. This is the best way to keep my feet planted firmly on the ground, and in the here and now.

SHADOW CARD: Wheel of Fortune

The foundation of the reading. As always, I stand upon the wheel, slipping and sliding through various emotions. The key is not to cling to any one of them. Experience it, learn from what it brings me, and let it go (aka move along). Intellectually, I may say something is over, but I carry it with me, unnoticed, my mind going back and gnawing on it like a dog with a bone. Don't try to be right, or I'll end up being wrong.

WHAT'S THAT MEAN?

The wheel turns and surviving it is about not clinging to any one feeling. Be fairminded instead of seeking to be right. Learn negotiation and strategy. Live in the now, not in the then.

Daily Draw Reflection

2010-12-08T14:11:00.000-08:00

DAILY DRAW

With all the 'goings on' here, I shuffled thinking about what I needed to do for myself, because all my time and energy is going toward helping all the others around me.

THEME: The Hermit

With the circumstances of my life right now, The Hermit recommends I need time for myself. Find a place of peace and quiet and seek to clear my mind of mundane thoughts. While work must be done, it will be important to step back between those moments of activity and dwell in the place of sweet solitude, where the silence of the mountain top retreat allows the layers of disquiet to be stripped away. Sort of the Calgon of the Spiritual Set.

GUIDE: The World

I am guided to see that I need not head off to a cloister somewhere for this peace and serenity, because anywhere and everywhere a 'retreat' can be created. Don't be confined by traditional ideas. Find my oasis in places in which I feel peace, free, calm and happy; where my thoughts are unemcumbered by activities of daily living and can fly beyond the clouds.

MEDITATION: Knight of Wands

This about Energy Conservation. Now, about 10 hours after laying out these cards, it occurs to me how appropo it is, which I learned after I 'blew my top' at someone who doesn't need that right now, being as their infirm. But more importantly, I don't need to do that to myself either. So, it's up in the air, right now what my meditation should be, but it did get me thinking... which is a first step.

SHADOW CARD: Four of Swords

The foundation is rest, recovery, and rejuvination, which comes back into my reading from a personal reading I'd done on December 5.

WHAT'S THAT MEAN

Go within to the place where solitude and peace and quiet reign. The place, physically, is less important, if I can go within, perhaps on a jaunt to Jesseville, and rest and relax. A little music, some good visuals, and I'm floating away from all of this that weighs too heavily upon my mind and shoulders.

Go To The Mattresses!

2010-12-03T05:46:00.000-08:00

DAILY DRAW
What to do to become more healthy

THEME: Seven of Wands

In the effort to become more healthy (to lose weight), the theme is to fight for my health. Burn more calories than I'm taking in. Defeat the lazy habit and work hard. The gauntlet has been laid down. Pick it up and FIGHT! Make it part of my QUEST!

GUIDE: Eight of Swords

I feel bound and blinded by my defeatist attitude. But I'm not helpless. Remove the obstacle of defeatist thinking and let the fight begin.

MEDITATION: Queen of Wands

Use the tools I've been given. Learn about Energy management. Be gracious in the current position and move forward with my re-organized plans.

SHADOW CARD The Magician

It's all about learning to mast the basics. Go back to square one in my lifestyle change in eating and exercising habits. Follow the corriculum. Use the magic of my will to live.

WHAT'S THAT MEAN?

The battle of the bulge is on! No defeatist thinking allowed in the ring. Re-organize my program, and back to the basics of mastery. My Mantra:
I WILL SEE RESULTS.

The Inner Classroom

2010-12-01T07:12:00.000-08:00

DAILY DRAW

As I shuffled the cards this morning, I thought about how I feel removed from The Mother, because I'm 'stuck' inside (of my own volition, not being a big fan of the colder months). I was thinking about how I might 'get closer' to Nature during these months of hibernation.

THEME: The Magician

Nature exists in all things. Begin or return to the basics. Look at the aspects of Nature with self, and even list what the main (four) aspects (elements) are and what shapes they take to study and explore their realms more closely. Even on this kind of day, the air and water are at the forefront in the stormy weather outside. These are feeding the Earth and the combination of all are the parts of Energy - Nature is out there and in here.

GUIDE: Five of Wands

The conflict within is a guide to seeing how the elements bump against each other like molecules do, creating and recreating and changing the structure or fabric of the moments. This is seeing life in action. I am reminded that friction is essential to the building blocks of making life.

MEDITATION: The Hanged Man

Seeing things from various perspectives allows our understanding of the basics of life to expand. Observe everything. The classroom is life itself, everywhere and in all things.

SHADOW CARD: Page of Cups

Make note of my reactions to every moment of the day. Emotion is an integral part of my nature, as is energy, and thought, and being spiritual.

WHAT'S THAT MEAN

Thinking of how to bring my relationship with Nature closer, when I can't be 'out' there, allows me to study the inner world of Nature. See the struggle of inner life and connect it to the larger world, to the Wheel and its turning. New points of view will help this endeavor and keeping note of emotional reaction will give a picture of the whole process as I move through my day. I am the experiment in the working of Nature. The classroom is inside me, and in the encapsulated world of a house, as much as it is outside in the rest of the Natural world. Make the connections to learn the process.

Back to Basics

2010-11-29T06:12:00.000-08:00

DAILY DRAW

THEME: Page of Wands

Today's lesson will be about Energy: it's uses and how to build it up and spend it wisely. Thus, using energy is today's theme. In the beginning, it takes practice to not squander energy needlessly on things that are not important. More crucial is how to replenish energy throughout the day. Be mindful of how I use my energy, and how I regain it. Perhaps it is also wise to remember to respect it.

GUIDE: The Lovers

Energy spent on building a loving household, is energy well spent. When Energy is used in the acts of love, it is easily replenished.

MEDITATION: Eight of Wands

Wild bursts of energy is not the wise way of energy conservation. Though a build of of negative energy let go in an activity such as dance, is far more effective than in the expression of anger. Pay attention to my use of energy.

SHADOW CARD Five of Pentacles

This card reminds me that the result of poorly spent and exhausted ill used energy will only make me feel destitute, hopeless, and will only continue to sap my supply.

WHAT'S THAT MEAN?

A day to learn the basics of living. Seek the gentle and positive path. Frenzy and wild bursts in anger and other negative expressions will leave me feeling spent, sick, and destitute. THINK before I act especially in the 'heat' of a moment.

Damnation Alley?

2010-11-27T06:41:00.001-08:00

DAILY DRAW

THEME: Temptation

Temptation rides shot gun all the time. Governed by my own thought, (wants and needs) temptation steps in when uncertainty shows up and holds out a piece of candy, a shiny jewel, or a fix. If I've let my guard down or I fear old tapes have come to the entertainment center, Temptation hitches a ride. Today will have all the tempting things it always has, only I might see them more, and I might want something from that stockpile.

GUIDE: The Hierophant

Seeking not to do the 'shouldn't' things would make me want it all the more. Give temptation a bit of time and will get bored with me... I am guided not to make things I believe I should not do into mountains, instead of the molehills they really are.

MEDITATION: Ace of Cups

Contemplate all the good emotions I can imagine and consider what evokes them. When I don't fear temptation, I don't have to worry about it. Don't worry, be happy!

SHADOW CARD: Seven of Swords

Two can play this game. Trick temptation as it would do me. Psyche it out. Take away its power.

WHAT IT ALL MEANS

Temptations exist. Don't give it more power by resisting it. Go to my happy place and psych temptation out. Steal its power over me by seeing none of what I believe is bad for me isn't thus at all.

The folks in the theme card are all wrapped up in their personal wants and needs, and do not notice anything but these. The Hierophant stares out at the reader, sure in his ideas and beliefs: Tradition trumps Temptation. The Ace holds only the best of emotions, and is a shining beacon, casting its radiant light in all directions. The Seven, as always, bodily faces the past, but is looking over his shoulder at the future.

Thanksgiving Daily Draw

2010-11-25T05:57:00.000-08:00

DAILY DRAW

THEME: Ten of Cups

The picture of the love and togetherness that the holiday evokes, comes through. In togetherness is where happiness can thrive if acceptance of all is at the foundation. This is a day of celebration and relaxation. We make each other possible, but perhaps more importantly, we complete each other.

GUIDE: Page of Wands

Bringing the message of embracing life fully and with enthusiasm, the guide reminds us to enjoy the moments; each brings its own kind of energy that makes for a rich mixture throughout the day.

MEDITATION: Wheel of Fortune

This moves down from yesterday's theme, to help us to accept all moments and the feelings they evoke, through taking time to think about what it all means.

SHADOW CARD: Four of Swords

Not only is this a day of celebration, but it is a day of rest and relaxation. We are in the land of do as you please. Enjoy!

WHAT IT ALL MEANS

It is important to take time out to enjoy what we have; to be thankful for what is good in our life. A time out is a time when we can renew our energies, and to contemplate the rich mix that makes up the fabric of our lives. Relax and rest, away from the daily routine.

A Waste Of Time

2010-11-23T06:32:00.000-08:00

DAILY DRAW

THEME: Three of Swords

The thought that time is flittering away and I have little to show for it is heartbreaking to me. I never seem to be able to settle on what I want to do, and when I think I want to do something, I am no longer sure it really is what I have always wanted to do. This is a day of uncertainty.

GUIDE: Six of Wands

Don't worry, this too shall pass, and I will be happily back at center court, and I will feel like celebrating the next glimpse. This time of year saps the energy out of me and I forget what the other side of the coin is like.

MEDITATION: Seven of Swords

Instead of dwelling on the fact that time is a thief, consider that I still have the will to decide what it is I want to do with the time I am given.

SHADOW CARD: Nine of Cups

Regardless of how quickly time is passing, open myself and my life to the endless possibilities, and celebrate them all!

WHAT IT ALL MEANS:

Time spent feeling sorry for myself because I have no time, is time wasted on not using it as I wish. Stop moping and start living, and celebrate every moment.

The Three of Swords is just there, like in the aces, hovering in mid air. There are no people in it, and it speaks plainly of how thought can discombobulate us. The Six of Wands turns it's back on the 3 of swords and moves onward into the future. The Seven of Swords, while bodily facing the Six of Wands, is looking toward the future as well. And the shadow card looks out at me being happy and enticing me to celebrate along with him.

Full Moon Daily Reflection

2010-11-21T18:18:00.000-08:00

DAILY DRAW

THEME: Nine of Pentacles

Abundance and Solitude. The first is not simply have everthing I want, but more importantly, having what I need to BECOME a perfect spiritual garden myself. This day is about looking at what is needed to 'Become,' and also what is not needed (or determine whether there is anything not needed). Solitude may help this to some small extent, but only to be able to sort things out; not to withdraw from life, which is withdrawing from 'becoming.'

GUIDE: Six of Swords

Life is a rite of passage. Every opportunity for growth is within each moment. While all of the 'big' moments seem like the only time I am in this state of being, every moment provides this and in fact IS this. My Guides urge me to be mindful, to see each moment of becoming, and more importantly to understand that each moment IS the state of becoming.

MEDITATION: Queen of Swords

Look at how thought and all that happens are connected. Note the subtleties as well as that which is obvious.

SHADOW CARD: Three of Wands

I am reminded that growing (the process of becoming) takes place in the present moment. After yesterday's reading (look at what it was) I noted that the Three of Wands was hidden by the Shadows. This is about seeing - glimpsing - the 'becoming.' This is not only watching my 'ships' come in, but in that moment, understanding the process, witnessing the unfolding. It happened yesterday while watching The Blue Butterfly; those moments when I FEEL some shift in myself to a place that is beyond the mundane.

WHAT IT ALL MEANS

Understand what true abundance is, and don't mistake solitude for seclusion. Mindfulness is key to seeing each moment of life's Rite of Passage (the becoming). Thought is the pilot; note its driving force in my daily life and the intertwining of all aspects. Be mindful of the moments where 'becoming' takes place.

The 9 of Pents is facing the past, and sees within, though not necessarily sees reality. The 6 of Swords is sailing into the future, though is facing away from all. The Queen of Swords faces her future, my present moment in the shadows...

Seekers, Kings and Cups

2010-11-16T13:47:00.000-08:00

DAILY DRAW

THEME: The Seeker

New information brings new considerations to the table. Today is the time to begin a plan of how to proceed. The possibilities are endless.

GUIDE: King of Swords

This guide speaks of taking charge of the arena of thought. Be mindful of the way my thoughts affect my actions. This is about observation.

MEDITATION: Seven of Cups

In the new part of my program, I will be able to look more closely at my dreams; what I want. Consider all things deliberately. Understand each. Decisions are for later when all the information comes in.

SHADOW CARD: Eight of Cups

The foundation is about the fact that when changes are in the making, there will be things (baggage) which will no longer be needed. Leaving behind that which is not needed will help lighten my load.

WHAT IT ALL MEANS:

New info comes to light, bringing new considerations. Take charge of the thoughts. Be mindful of how actions follow thoughts. Note what dreams may come, and begin to see what is no longer needed. Prepare to clean house.

The Seeker faces away from everyone and everything. He's off in his own world, carefree, and happily walking to the beat of his own drum, the notes of his own music. The King of Swords is always standing strong, staring the reader right in the face. He will be reckoned with, as thoughts themselves need to be reckoned with. The Seven of Cups is dreaming dreams, unaware of that which is going on around her, while the Eight of Cups, once The Seeker, now The Hermit in the making, is heading off on the new adventure, leaving behind what is no longer needed or wanted.

Spinning Wheel Got To Go 'Round

2010-11-13T06:02:00.000-08:00

DAILY DRAW

THEME: Wheel of Fortune

What changes shall come my way today? This speaks of the whys and wherefores concerning feeling the many parts of the emotional spectrum. Remember the way to 'survive' the wheel is not to cling to any one emotion. It will manifest and experiencing it is important. Then allow it to float away and move on.

GUIDE: Knight of Cups

My guide brings the message to keep love in my heart. It is a shield against the ravages of the stronger, negative emotions.

MEDITATION: Three of Pentacles

If it does not seem easy to keep love in my heart, a meditation on the things which evoke that feeling will be helpful. Focus and study it.

SHADOW CARD: The Magician

Given the ability to work with any element, is the way to mastery. Note how the other aspects (elements) interplay with emotional changes. What is their role? It is a learning experience.

WHAT IT ALL MEANS

This is no different from other days. It simply is a chance to be mindful of what my range of emotions is and to what events they may be attached. Temper all reactions with love. Study and learn what comes into play. This is the way of Mastery.

The Wheel faces all directions, depending on where you are on it. The knight faces the future with love. The Three of Pentacles speaks of intense focus in the moment with an eye toward the future. The Magician is the foundation and the opportunity to work toward mastery of the elements as they exist in life.

The Decision

2010-11-12T06:30:00.000-08:00

DAILY DRAW

THEME: The Seeker

I made a decision to concentrate on working with three card readings instead of moving ahead in the books right now, to allow the information I've already learned to cement itself into my brain, and to give me the practice needed to increase my ability to understand the cards from the pov of what I have already learned, before moving on. There are many configurations to work with. Thus, the theme is about beginning a new phase, and I become The Seeker again.

GUIDE: Nine of Wands

The Guide confirms that resting and taking a break before moving forward with this part of my studies, will help to stop the inner struggle that has arisen too often of late.

MEDITATION: Page of Pentacles

The meditation from two days ago returns to also confirm the decision. It is a place which will best suit my studies, to remain until I have integrated what I have thus far learned. I am reminded that buckling down and concentration will serve my progress with my work.

SHADOW CARD The Tower

The 'upheaval' of the struggle with my work has brought a good change to the table. The darkness of my troubled mind has been released by the lightning of my thoughts and decision.

WHAT IT ALL MEANS:

A new study regime is confirmed by my guides, suggesting it is time to rest, with the Page reiterating the necessity of indepth study. The upheaval of the past weeks of inner conflict gives way to the dawning light of which way to go.

I note that The Seeker faces the past (the struggles) and plays a farewell tune. The Nine of Wands faces the future, resting before moving on. The page looks forward also to the renewed work. Thus, the change releases the light from the darkness of struggle and my confused mind.

Covert Ops, Two Messengers, Mother Superior and Me

2010-11-10T06:33:00.000-08:00

DAILY DRAW

THEME: Seven of Swords

This speaks of a day where things are done quietly and it will be a day of mystery. Each moment will unfold as an unknown piece of the puzzle. It is about fitting the pieces together.

GUIDE: Page of Cups

I am guided to seek to figure out what piece of the puzzle has emerged; to feel the very essence of it. Everything has a feel to it, like in dreams - we know people from what feelings they evoke. Same here. Reach out with my feelings to understand who is in the driver's seat.

MEDITATION: Page of Pentacles

Seek the depth of each piece. This is part of putting together the blueprint. It is focus and hard work, but mostly dedication. Study each piece, and understand its purpose.

SHADOW CARD The Empress

This is the foundation upon which this work is based. This foundation is me - The Mother of the Others.

WHAT IT ALL MEANS

Covert Ops and the young creative lass; pairs in the form of messengers and Mother Superior - me.

As I learn about reading, I begin to see each group of three from the perspective of BODY/MIND/SPIRIT or PAST/PRESENT/FUTURE, and etc. Here, the Past (mr. covert ops) while facing further back into the past, is turning his head to sneak a peek at the present (his future). The young page of cups faces the past, but studies the information emerging (from the cup) from there, seeking to understand the feelings associated with it. The page of pents (the future page - a page turned) having gathered the information from the past and present, studies, puts the pieces together; begins to find the patterns in the chaos... and she faces the foundation that is being built - The Mother Empress aka me, who in turn, faces all my children. Fascinating.

Celebrate My Stand, But Beware That Which Lurks In The Shadows

2010-11-05T06:07:00.000-07:00

DAILY DRAW

THEME: Seven of Wands

The Seven of Wands returns and reinforces the return to work. This card speaks of standing my ground for my intentions and don't back down.

GUIDE: Judgment

Remember the sense of excitement and the want to DO more, after the work resumed. This is important and I am guided to follow these leads; to rise out of complacency and keep on keeping on.

MEDITATION: Three of Cups

Celebrate the return by doing more. I am reminded that this isn't only what I have wanted for like ever, but the pull of Spirit within is what drives the desire to find THE WAY. In the quiet moments, go within and feel the delight: This is my motivation.

SHADOW CARD: Five of Cups

Lurking in the shadows is the distractor. I am reminded of how easily it is to get caught up in either direction. Keep my eyes open and should I see I have hit an obstacle, don't go back to the land of I've-lost-everything. Look around, because nothing is lost, just around the corner is the path and I will see the 'light' of Spirit flickering in the shadows, showing me that what I don't see is that things change as we work on it, and not to think I've lost the thread. There it is, dancing in the light, like the way the sunlight dances on the path in a forest, where the leaves sway and their shadow moves, and the darkness gives way to the golden glow, lighting the path once more.

WHAT IT ALL MEANS:

Feel the strength born of success. Remember the sense of excitement. That comes from the core! Celebrate by doing more, but don't forget to be aware of old habits which lurk in the shadows. They are False Evidence Appearting Real... and they are lies!

Struggle For Success

2010-11-04T05:39:00.000-07:00

DAILY DRAW

THEME: Five of Wands

This will be a day of trying to fit the pieces together to gain a greater understanding of the "picture" as it manifests currently. There is just a vague shape of what it looks like. A bit more than moderate expenditure of energy is going into this.

GUIDE: Nine of Wands

It will be important to rest during the moments when the struggle pauses. Patch myself up and rest up and wait to see what progress has been made. Look ahead toward resolution.

MEDITATION: Four of Cups

While there might be some dissatisfaction and thoughts go to scrapping the whole mess, be sure to look at all the possibilities to salvage the project or process. Don't overlook anything.

SHADOW CARD: Ace of Pentacles

Persistance and hard work to put things into order will pay off in abundance of success. After this period of struggle passes, the time to begin again (resume) will present itself.

WHAT IT ALL MEANS:

During struggle, nobody pays attention to anyone else. Take the time between bouts to rest and revitalize. Look to thinking things through, even when it feels like there is no hope. Don't over look anything. Envision success and it will come.

Ch ch ch changes

2010-11-03T06:15:00.001-07:00

DAILY DRAW

THEME: Transformation

Today is a new day and every new day provides a moment to think about and plan for change. My eyes are drawn to the deep and lighter red of the robe of Transformation and it speaks of the courage and passion which is needed to do things for myself I wish to change. I know the way, I need the courage to stick with the what I must do, and the passion to enliven the way.

GUIDE: Seven of Wands

I am guided to be more conservative in expending my energy on things which do not add to the process of change, but to also make a stand against any obstacles that would seek to distract my progress.

MEDITATION: The Magician

Meditate uon mastering the things I need to work my program. Remember lessons already learned, and deepen my studies.

SHADOW CARD: The Empress

This is a reminder that it takes hard work, but the rewards will be worth it.

WHAT IT ALL MEANS

An opportunity to make changes is helped with inner courage and passion. Master the process to stay on track, and guard against distractors. The soft, gentle reminder that this is for what is most important in my life, and to know that it will be worth the effort.

Daily Draw Reflection

2010-11-02T08:01:00.000-07:00

DAILY DRAW

THEME: Two of Wands

Less action, more waiting. I am drawn to the globe. Where in the world is... who? What? This is a precursor to the work of this dark time, the hibernation. This is a pause in the guise of balance. Considering new creations. Enjoy the quiet.

GUIDE: Seven of Swords

Keep your ideas to yourself - guard them until it is time to reveal the plans.

MEDITATION: Knight of Swords

Though my thoughts come and go quickly, I am reminded to be vigilant of those which leave impact. There are messages for me in them. There could be glimplses of light in them.

SHADOW CARD: Knight of Cups

Find the passion in these quiet days.
Clarified: The High Priestess Use intuition regards which way to go.

WHAT IT ALL MEANS

A pause as we ready ourselves for the quiet of winter. Keep ideas and plans close to the vest until all the plans have been worked out. Stay alert to messages coming in, but keep seeking to be passionate through the intuitive realm.

NOTES ON PLACEMENT:

The theme faces left. THe guide, while facing left is looking back at the information coming in from the meditation. The shadow brings up the rear, facing right. All directions are covered. Interesting.

Daily Draw Reflection

2010-10-29T05:52:00.000-07:00

DAILY DRAW

THEME: Seven of Cups

A day of dreaming about how I want to manifest my emotions in a more positive way, presents itself. What dreams do I seek? What would I like to make a reality? The day is open to life's ever changing opportunities and possibilities.

GUIDE: The Queen of Pentacles

Her peace and gentle way speak of taking time to choose action and words. Be like the snail and the race will likely be won.

MEDITATION: Four of Swords

Rest is important... a rest - get away - from all the crap that my negativity likes to manufacture. Step back into my quiet, safe place to reflect on how to achieve my goals. Take a mental break from the world. Dream. Take time to witness the changes in the Natural world.

SHADOW CARD: Five of Swords

After the dream finds the desired goal, be creative in the planning process to make it a reality. Don't be afraid to go outside the box to get what I want.

WHAT IT ALL MEANS:

Dream a little dream and take the time to think through the logistics... Enter the sanctity of Sanctuary and ponder with creative - go outside the box - to find the way that makes me happy.

Daily Draw Reflection

2010-10-27T06:09:00.000-07:00

DAILY DRAW

THEME: The Moon

That which is hidden. The Moon moves up from yesterday's meditation, to the theme for today. The secrets of balancing my life is glimpsed, much the way the light and face of the moon is, as a space in the clouds reveals Her sacred light. The Moon teaches me about how to give voice to both the wild and the domesticated parts of myself. Seek the harmony of the two living together.

GUIDE: Six of Wands

The Law of Attraction is the Guide's message. Delve into the how of this process evolves. If I seek success with a pure heart, then the work will bring success.

MEDITATION: Page of Swords

Listen for the messages and take time to meditate on them. Endeavor not to let them go out the other ear before I have given them some thought.

SHADOW CARD: The Hermit

I hold the staff of life in my hand. Strive to understand its meaning and its power.

WHAT IT ALL MEANS:

A chance to be open to the secrets of life appears. Work with the Law of Attraction, and listen for the messages borne upon the wind and within the sounds of the raining falling. Don't just hold the staf of life, understand its significance.

Daily Draw Reflection

2010-10-27T04:46:00.001-07:00

DAILY DRAW
October 25, 2010

THEME: Five of Pentacles

Building the perfect new way of living begins with taking care of myself. If my physical being is dysfunctional in any way, and I feel crippled by my fears or I turn in on myself, so I won't see the state I'm in, I'll no further in my plan for change than the threshold of my old ways. This is a day of looking at the realities, seeing that 'help' is there if I just turn around. assess what areas need to be changed. Make a start.

GUIDE: Queen of Pentacles

The guide is the gentle Queen, who reminds me that this process begins with seeing objectively, yet without making judgments about what I see. Simply note where the changes need to be made and take it slow.

MEDITATION: Queen of Swords

Meditate upon the quality of my thinking. Clear my mind of that which will not help - inner arguments (dialog) may hinder. Be honest about what I see.

SHADOW CARD: Six of Wands

Follow this prescription for a triumphant start to this process which will help me to move forward.

WHAT IT ALL MEANS

Making a new start requires assessing the current state of things. Be guided to be gentle in my objectivity, making no judgments and the day and process will succeed.

Daily Draw Reflection

2010-10-24T09:03:00.000-07:00

DAILY DRAW

THEME: The High Priestess

I was just thinking, while shuffling, that I had not seen The High Priestess in a reading for a long time. Ask and I shall receive? How interesting!

I feel a freedom in her. The kind of freedom which comes from living with mastery in both the material world and through the intuitive approach from the Spiritual world. She combines both in her approach to all she does, thus this day will be about living each moment through wisdom and knowledge born of a balance between the material and the Spiritual: a perfect blend.

GUIDE: Seven of Cups

With the theme evolving from my written words, the seven of cups brings me to the 'dreamtime' but not sleeping dreams as much as day dreaming, and fantasies about how life would be, were it perfect. Then work to create this way of living. Don't just dream about what I want, but envision how to achieve it... what steps would be taken to get from here to there.

MEDITATION: Ace of Swords

And, almost as if to demonstrate the mastery of this possibility; of this dream, the Ace of Swords flies in from yesterday's THEME, landing in the domain of this spread, which the Swords command. To achieve the things I envision above, it takes a clear mind; an uncluttered mind. Focus on the idea and work out the plan.

SHADOW CARD Eight of Cups

Just a reminder however, that while building the perfect way of living, some things must go the way of the junk heap... yes, like it or not, some things must be left behind. But we can work it out, from the song of the same name.

WHAT IT ALL MEANS:

Learn to live in balance, in all aspects of life. Create the ideal blue print in my dreams, and use the sharpness of an uncluttered mind to build it, taking the time to clear out what is not needed in my Future World.

Herne's Full Moon Reading

2010-10-23T05:01:00.000-07:00

Herne's Full Moon Reading
October 22, 2010
Part Two

This is a second reading for the Full Moon. Usually I do the one posted before this. But I came across this spread and have wanted to do this for quite some time.

~ ~ ~

1. Relationships The Empress - Earth
What you need to know about developing your potential in relationship to others. The Truth of my relationships be they lover/coworker/family/friend.

The truth about my relationships is easily seen in the caretaker that I am, have always been, and will always be.

2. Power of Choice The Lovers - Cups
What decision needs to be made now to fully express my potential? What will free my creativity?

All I need is LOVE... Emotions drive, and will thus free my creativity.

3. Manifesting Goals Two of Swords
What action do I need to take on the physical plane to reinforce my magical (or Tarot) work? What can I do in the mundance world to support my Spirit's desire?

Trust that even when I feel as if I can't see my path, that if I remain balanced, I will find the way to manifest my goals.

4. Creativity Knight of Wands
The Mother has given me talents, abilities and gifts. What must I do to fully express them? [If I don't like this card, it is because it shows blocks that I need to address before I can realize my full creative gifts]

As the Two of Swords suggests balance, The Knight of Wands shows where this balance must be: Jesse should be given the Reins to help re-develop my creativity.

5. Protection Two of Cups
This position shows me where to establish personal boundaries so I do not give my personal power away. What do I need to protect?

As seen from yesterday's reaction during a discussion between me and my father, I need to protect myself in relation to others. Don't allow my energy to be sapped by other people's own dysfuntion.

6. Psychic Gifts Page of Swords
How can I best develop my intuition? If this position is a Court Card, it suggests the appearance of a teacher, guide, mentor.

And so it is, that the best way to help develop my intuition is to keep working with my 'teacher,' TAROT.

7. Blessings and Spiritual Direction The Magician
The Mother wants me to celebrate the joy of being alive. What do I have to be thankful for? How can I best express the GODDESS in me?

A very interesting card. Almost from the beginning, I've loved The Magician. I actually feel delighted, thrilled, always happy to see him come into a reading. What greater blessing, then, to see Him here, in my Blessings and Spiritual Direction spot. BUT more important is that I've been working in 'Tarot For Your Self' and have chosen my three favorite cards: one represents my body, one represents my mind and one represents my Spirit. The Magician represents my body. THUS, what I see in this moment is that the celebration of being alive is celebrating who I am physically (something I have spent much of my life not doing). I am thankful for the chance to be able to begin to see my physical self in a more loving way. The best way to express the Goddess in me is to take care of myself, take care of my body. celebrate myself. This leads to following my plans for creating a sacred space for my work, thanks to the work I've done previously with The Magician.

Full Moon Reading Part One

2010-10-23T04:53:00.000-07:00

FULL MOON READING
Part One
October 22, 2010

1. What is seen with clarity so bright it can even blind you?
Four of Pentacles
Attachment to the old way; clinging to what is familiar. Starts and stops. FALSE BELIEFS APPEARING REAL aka FEAR.

2. What gets completed; closes a cycle?
Four of Swords
The period between Mabon and Samhain is filled with celebrations of the harvest, and rest periods as I reflect upon what the year has brought my way. This cycle begins to draw to a close now, ending with the last celebration on Samhain and the beginning of the New Year. It will soon be time to return to normal activity; to return fully to study, and putting the house into Winter mode.

3. What begins to fade; needs to be released
Nine of Cups

The party is winding down and will be over in a week and a three days and a return to work will commence. This will be work in which I want to be involved, on the spiritual font, and taking care of the mundane as well.

4. Myself - The Shadow Card
Four of Wands
"Life is a stage." I heard that recently listening to a talk by Marcus Katz, and as I will be regaining stronghold in my work with Tarot - my teacher - I do this with a joyous heart.

May the Light of this Herne's Full Moon shine bright upon your Hearth!

Theme For A Full Moon

2010-10-22T06:22:00.000-07:00

DAILY DRAW
Herne's Moon In Full

THEME: The Hermit - Earth

The current card which I am studying in the 'Spirit' card position (from Tarot For Yourself exercise), steps into place. This is a day of action born of Spirit awareness. The Elder, stands at the top of the path which leads to enlightenment, holding his lantern high for others to see the way. It will be a day where glimpses of 'The Light' will suddenly break through the shroud of the darkness of the unknowing ones.

GUIDE: Ten of Wands

Within the moments of light, I will see what burdens me, and weighs down my own progress. I am guided to make note of these moments that I may release what is no longer needed which I carry with me; the thoughts, dreams, worries of the past, present and future.

MEDITATION: Six of Pentacles

Find the balance in what is given and what is received. Share wisdom gleaned from the glimpses and listen for the nuggets of truth from All That Is around me.

SHADOW CARD: Five of Wands

There is a struggle to remain mindful. This takes place within self. Learn to integrate and live in harmony, not only with others but with self.

WHAT IT ALL MEANS

Seek to find the moments where light shines upon the path. See and release that which is no longer needed on my journey. Share with others and listen to their wisdom. The path of struggle leads us to know that without inner harmony, there can never be outer harmony.

Daily Draw Reflection

2010-10-21T07:35:00.000-07:00

DAILY DRAW

THEME: The Seeker - Earth

This is a day of freedom, heading toward a new chapter of work. I am ready to begin this next phase and I proceed with a joyous heart and my companion, Mindfullness, which keeps me from taking a head long dive off a cliff because I am caught up in my reverie!

GUIDE: Six of Cups

I am guided to feel the sweet innocence of starting a new (phase) journey. To keep fine tuning that mind set of what I believe life SHOULD have been like were it perfect.

MEDITATION: Ace of Swords

Meditate on clearing my mind so I can approach any and all parts of the day with clarity and sharp thinking. Remember to pick my words carefully before I speak.

SHADOW CARD: Nine of Swords

This is a reminder to not carry old baggage with me into the new phase. Before comencing, finish old business. Be especially mindful of the 'fear factor:' that which appears real but is just a loop from the past running on and on, even after its time is past. Perspective is everything.

WHAT IT ALL MEANS:

As I prepare for the new 'phase' of work and the year nears its end, I am enjoying the freedom of knowing that the past is done with and moving forward, I am guided to feel the innocence which comes with starting anew. Clearing my mind of old baggage, will give me the clarity of thought that is needed when I begin in full.

Question and Answer Spread

2010-10-18T13:57:00.001-07:00

Question and Answer Spread
October 17, 2010

The spread used is from a blog which I visit. Seperating the Majors from the Minors, shuffle the Major Arcana and then beginning with the first card, turn it over, calling out the number of the card, starting with "0" and continue turning over until the number called out matches the card turned over. This becomes the Question.

Likewise, shuffle the Minor Arcana (all included) and then begin turning over the cards. Call out starting with the ACE and call each card in turn, through the Courts to the KING. Keep turning cards over, as above, until you find the match to what you are calling out. This becomes the answer to your question.

~ ~ ~

QUESTION: The Chariot - #7

What do I need to do to move forward with my studies?

ANSWER: Two of Pentacles

Balance is key to breaking through a block and pulling myself out of a rut. Allow the parts of myself the freedom to express themselves. Too much of one thing will create a sense of 'overkill.' Give myself breaks, even if they are structured and scheduled. However, if the need to be spontaneous arises, then follow that road and just do what feels right, but with some sort of time limit. This Two of Pentacles recommends that making everything fun is the way. Create a time away which includes playing games, or work with my cards in a playful game-like way. This sprad itself was doing just that. Make learning FUN!

We're Having A Party

2010-10-15T06:27:00.000-07:00

DAILY DRAW

THEME: Page of Wands

This card speaks of regaining energy from the last days and even week. The day itself feels heavy and low on the energy front, so this would be the perfect day to work with learning how to give the feel of the day a boost.

GUIDE: Three of Cups

Following the thoughts in the theme, I am guided to dance and fill the house with good fun, good food and rousing music to raise the energy.

MEDITATION: Seven of Swords

With 'playing' in mind, meditating on how to work in a mystery or game of stealth might pique the excitement and help raise the energy of the day.

SHADOW CARD: Nine of Cups

The nine of cups underscores the way to approach creating an atmosphere for a successful adventure in raising energy. The lessons of Peter Pan's Neverland come to mind and letting the inner child drive today might be the way.

WHAT IT ALL MEANS:

This is a day for raising my energy. Call on the fun of dance and music to help this endeavor and add a bit of mystery and my efforts will be met with success! Party Hearty!

And The Message Is

2010-10-12T07:53:00.000-07:00

DAILY DRAW

THEME: Page of Swords

I think I need to find out what messages are trying to get my attention. The page is becoming a bit of a fixture. Is this about information I should be seeing but am not? OR is this perhaps about some bit of someone nosing in where they shouldn't be?

CLARIFIER: Ten of Pentacles

This tells me that this is information about the family, which makes sense, though to be honest, I'm not entirely sure what I can do about it. However, as someone said, being fore warned, is being fore armed... anyway, I need to look at what bits of information are hanging around lately that I'm not paying attention to. Keep an eye on the situation with my father and what the doctor is trying to tell him.

GUIDE: Six of Pentacles

This shows me there will be a give and take aspect to the day - I am guided to be giving and accepting with sharing information today.

MEDITATION: The Chariot

There is opportunity to meditate on how to proceed in the various aspects of my life. Look at the things I have going on and see which are proceding according to plan, and which might need a bit of a push.

SHADOW CARD: Temperance

Again with the juggling. Just a remind as I return to normal, be moderate in thought and action.

WHAT IT ALL MEANS

There is information coming in. I am guided to be open to giving and receiving in this arena. Meditate on how to proceed and remember that moderation is always the best approach to everything.

Prohibition Lifted... Temporarily

2010-10-09T06:54:00.000-07:00

Okay, here's the situation and the box it came in. Having had a visit from the Demons of Dentistry, I'm currently in one of those highly coveted times where I can eat (from the mushy, gushy menu) what I want, which has always been sweets and breads and all the things they now tell us are bad for us... BUT the prohibition if lifted, even if temporarily. Which makes my reading today very interesting, indeed:

DAILY DRAW

THEME: The Sun

The theme from yesterday continues and today it will be all about resting and relaxing and playing. The Sun is shining inside and outside. There aren't even rules for eating right now... chow down on the delectible delights of puddings, pancakes, cereals. Party, party, party.

GUIDE: The Seeker

Joining in the celebratory ambiance of the day is The Seeker, bringing his flute and a joyous heart. It's time to don our play clothes and color the world with fun. But there is also a guiding thought to remember this day (time) off is about quay satiety presage imbue convalescence. Rest when it is needed.

MEDITATION: Four of Pentacles

During this time of healing from The Great Extraction of 2010, keep in mind that while there will be freedom to eat anything (on the soft, sweet side of the food chain), it is for a limited time only. Seek not to get attached to foods which are normally prohibited and do not continue to cling to them after I am able to return to normal activity and diet.

SHADOW CARD: Three of Swords

This underscores the meditation. Take care not to mess up the balance which was set into motion two years ago when I began to rebuild my way of life to be able to keep on living.

WHAT IT ALL MEANS:

Playtime and eat all the cake and ice cream I want... but it is temporary and understand my tendancy to cling to unhealthy things can lead to heartbreak.

Begin Again

2010-10-07T06:33:00.000-07:00

I took a step (even if out of necessity) to attend to a personal situation which I've been neglecting. I saw it as a new chance to take better care of myself. Interestingly today's reading, I believe, reflects just that. Quite a nice flow here:

DAILY DRAW

THEME: The Seeker

New Beginnings. As I see the day from new perspectives, I can choose to go in any direction. Still, there is wisdom in watching where I am going. Be mindful of actions. Follow prescribed protocols.

GUIDE: Ace of Wands

The Ace steps up from yesterday's meditation to guide me with the idea that everyday is new; every moment is new. Thus, even in the midst of years of being who I've been, new ways can be brought in, added to my repetoire of how-to be. Take the time to add new things to life or resume older ways that helped me to be the best I can be. It's never to late to start again.

MEDITATION: King of Pentacles

Within the realm of new beginnings, and beginning again, a good meditation would be to think of what ways to approach the ADL. Care for the temple first, and the work I do will be done with greater care for each task.

SHADOW CARD: The Magician

This card underscores the idea of learning how to do things (relearning if necessary) when they are new with the intent and goal of mastering every part of the process.

WHAT IT ALL MEANS

New beginnings, or even re-inventing myself meld here with a reminder that all things take hard work and to aim for mastery to reap the greatest of rewards.

And Now For Something Different

2010-10-05T09:21:00.000-07:00

DAILY DRAW

I'm always thankful for those difficult cards, so that I can have the chance to really see, think about and feel them (as I always ask: with an open mind and and open heart). THUS, my reading today has given me chance to do that. To actually to a more personal reading, about ME, not just act as if there is someone else there, and give a reading by rote.

It should be noted that during the reading, four other cards slid off the table onto the floor and I decided to use each one as a clarifier for the cards which were picked. THOSE will be read after as a straight 'meaning' qualification thingy.

THEME: Three of Swords

It seems my heart is drawn in several directions with such little time for myself. It is not always possible to get to do all the things I want, or even plan to do. I have to choose, thus at times I must lose some activity which would otherwise enrich my life. So this is life? This is what I'm thinking. It's part of the mix.

GUIDE: Five of Pentacles

I'm guided, having seen and considered what the theme of the day means, to not allow the apparent loss of an aspect of my life make me feel destitute. I can return to doing those things at a later time; or create a schedule (set up a structure) to allow all things to have their time.

Meditation Knight of Pentacles

Regardless of my sense of lack of time, stop and consider what I need on an inner level before taking action. Time management itself would be a good meditation.

SHADOW CARD Temptation

The perfect card to such a reading. In times like this, knowing myself, I will be tempted to just do nothing. Take the high road, instead. Do what is NOT easiest. Try it... you'll like it.

WHAT IT ALL MEANS:

Some times we're given a look at how life feels on a somewhat subconscious level. This is important to be shown how old habits so easily fall back into place. Be mindful of what I'm doing and make a change.

NOW as to the four cards which fell on the floor... I placed these upon the table as if they were clarifiers for each of the above cards:

THEME: Temperance
GUIDE: The Sun
MEDITATION: Nine of Cups
SHADOW: Queen of Cups

What they mean...

Temperance speaks of moderation and not being so frenetic in juggling the things I have to do, and want to do in my life... SLOW DOWN.

The Sun speaks clearly in clarification of the Five of Pentacles: LET THE SUN SHINE IN... don't mope, woman.

Ah, yes, the Nine of Cups: Don't worry, be happy (no matter what).

And sitting quietly in the shadows, The Queen of Cups says, All you need is love, and the rest will work itself out.

Not bad, eh? Were those four cards MEANT as the original reading... No, but they put a different spin, which I did anyway, myself, on some pretty harsh cards. See, the possibilities really ARE endless...

How To Win The Day

2010-10-04T08:40:00.000-07:00

DAILY DRAW

THEME: Five of Swords

This is about winning the day; using strategically planned out ideas to accomplish tasks. It is about skills, and putting them into play, but not showing your hand. It is a day for practicing these skills. Slight-of-hand could be brought into play.

GUIDE: Nine of Wands

Within the series of 'bouts' a day brings, there are rest periods. I am guided to put this time to its best use and gather and replenish my energy for the next round.

MEDITATION: Eight of Pentacles

Practice makes perfect. Time spent honing my skill will pay off big dividends. To win the day, it take cunning, and stealth, but there are also techniques. It's not all just a wing and an prayer. That doesn't mean that we can't include relying on our instincts, but learning best how to utilize said techniques, and combining them in the proper way with my cunning and with my stealth, so when needed, they can more easily be put into action.

SHADOW CARD: The Tower

Without the know-how and the hours of learning and practice, the foundation on which my skills stand will crumble. Build a strong foundation and keep up the maintenance.

I am not Chicken Little

2010-10-02T06:42:00.000-07:00

DAILY DRAW

THEME: The Tower

Did anyone say upheaval? House clearning fits this bill. The weather has taken the turn toward the coming cold season. Dumping things out, cleaning things up, putting things in order. Yes housal upheaval is at hand.

GUIDE: Queen of Pentacles

From the Peaceful Kingdom where hard work is at the foundation of sucess, the Queen guides me to take a moment to work out the details. Envision the world I want to create.

MEDITATION: Six of Pentacles

In the give and take of daily life, consider that one person's garbage is another person's treasure. Don't throw out what might help others. Give it away. FREE CYCLE!

SHADOW CARD: Nine of Swords

It is hard to let go of some things. But others are quite easy to get rid of. Don't cause myself nightmares about having to give away something special. Keep it until I no longer have a need for it in my life.

WHAT IT ALL MEANS

Fall cleaning is necessary and hard work has its merits at th end of the day; a job well done. There is a give and take in progress. If it feels like a nightmare to let go of something, then don't do it...yet.

Daily Draw

2010-09-30T08:45:00.000-07:00

Finally, a day off; and a rainy one at that! No going out, (okay, a quick trip to the library, and back), just sort of lazing around, dreaming dreams, thinking about what's next, and curling up in a cozy chair and reading. It's IN the cards!

DAILY DRAW

THEME: Seven of Cups

It's rainy days and Sundays... so the words go... and today is the former and it is a day to dream. The choicfes are many and anyone of my day dreams could, with work, become reality.

GUIDE: Four of Swords

Even within the daily routine of being 'off' there are some small things to be done, but I am guided to relax, and enjoy the rest on a day such as this one affords. The theme flows into this quite nicely.

MEDITATION: Five of Wands

While resting and dreaming, use this time, as well, to meditate on some of the struggles that have popped up. With space away and time to work on coming up with solutions to keeping molehills from becoming mountains. Consider the best way to smooth things over.

SHADOW CARD: Ace of Swords

Welcome to the realm of thought my friends. This underscores the whole day quite well, and allows me to hone my strategic skills. Feed the brain and ideas will materialize more easily.

WHAT IT ALL MEANS:

Tis a day spent in the mind's arena. Resting the body gives time to work out current struggles and with else to do today, clarity of thought will rule the day!

Whistle While You Work

2010-09-29T05:28:00.000-07:00

DAILY DRAW

THEME: Two of Pentacles

Balance is the name of the game. Remain in the moments but guide them in the space ships of the imagination. One mundane moment should be balanced by a spirit activity or a turn in the playground.

GUIDE: Six of Cups

Play 'Remembere When,' during the day, as I become involved with something. Take a moment to remember something that particular activity reminds me of.

MEDITATION: Temperance

Remember to not overdo anything. Meditate on the idea of moderation in all thought and action and to balance each out with a moderate opposite thought or action.

SHADOW CARD: The High Priestess

She stresses the idea of keeping a blance, as well, especially between the mundane and the spiritual activity.

WHAT IT ALL MEANS

It means BALANCE, with a capital B and that rhymes with C and that stands for Cool. Walk in balance. One work, one play, and don't forget to remember something I've done like it in each moment.
Be moderate and let the intuition guide the day.

The Birth of an Idea

2010-09-28T07:38:00.000-07:00

DAILY DRAW

THEME: The Empress

This day will be the fertile grouind in which to give birth to the ideas which will help the progress of all that I'd like to accomplish.

GUIDE: Seven of Swords

It is best to keep my plans and ideas under wraps until the time is right to reveal them.

MEDITATION: Four of Swords

Meditate on the celebration of a successful endeavor. Remember, this is a dance for two.

SHADOW CARD: The Magician

Mastery and high energy along with clear thinking will be the foundation to make my plans a reality.

WHAT IT ALL MEANS

Giving birth to ideas, but keeping these plans to myself until the right time, will allow a smooth progress. Meditation on the celebration of the success will help to bring it to the light of day, and the foundation, upon which it all rests is the mastery of the things in the material world. Utilize the high energy which is present, and think things through clearly.

Daily Draw Reflection

2010-09-25T08:36:00.001-07:00

DAILY DRAW

THEME: Four of Swords

Today is about resting and reflection. It flows from the past week of revelry, to rest up before the work ahead.

GUIDE: Page of Swords

I am guided to think clearly today; to listen for and see what messages come my way through other beings in the Realm.

MEDITATION: Six of Swords

Reflect upon the obstacles I've gone through. Treat each morning as a rite of passage completed. Glide peacefully across to the next shore. I know my Guides are always with me.

SHADOW CARD: The Hermit

It is time to realize I am never in the dark. I carry the light of Spirit and Enlightenment within me. Study the landscape of every moment when I feel stuck and read it like a card. The answers are always right there inside me. Find the spread with which to read the world and the moments in which I dwell.

WHAT IT ALL MEANS:

Take things slowly, and open my mind to the messages in the world. Remember past experiences to help puzzle out the present. Use the FORCE, Luke!

Mabon Daily Draw Reflection

2010-09-22T05:56:00.000-07:00

MABON
Daily Draw

THEME: Eight of Swords

My eye is drawn to the rays of the sun coming up from behind the clouds; I am beginning to understand there is a possibility that I am not stuck. If I just move, I will see that I do not have to be, in fact, imprisoned in the clutches of fear, and will be able to work my way out of this rut.

GUIDE: Two of Swords

So, I have moved, and am sitting upon - where I do not know - but I am guided to feel balance returning. I must face my fears in order to maintain this balance, and continue to work my way out of this rut.

MEDITATION: Page of Pentacles

Like the young novice, I know if I meditate upon the symbol of my faith, I will find my way with eyes wide open to the core of my spirit being, and can continue to study, and work.

SHADOW CARD Five of Wands

I must understand, as with all things, there will be a struggle to find my place again. If I work with all aspects, assure all aspects that there is a place for each of them, then all the pieces will fall into place.

WHAT IT ALL MEANS:

My imprisonment is self-created, and in that understanding, I begin to find balance. Keep the faith, and meditate on my purpose, and this will help me work through this current struggle.

Aces High

2010-09-20T05:23:00.000-07:00

DAILY DRAW

THEME: Ace of Cups

The day will be filled with all that is good on the emotional front. Moments will be filled with wonder and it will manifest in a generally feel good day.

GUIDE: Ace of Swords

With such good emotion flowing, I am guided to maintain clarity of thought. Use this time to my advantage to plan and organize for the Turning of the Wheel and to convey ideas for things that will help others.

MEDITATION: Six of Pentacles

The Guide lends credence to the idea of 'sharing' (giving to help others) with those who need it; this will bring success for them. Remind them that hard work will pay off. Meditate on what to say and how to say it.

SHADOW CARD: Queen of Pentacles

The Queen will lead the best way to thinking things out; how to do things. Patience is paramount in giving advice. Find the maternal instinct to fulfill my goals to help.

WHAT IT ALL MEANS

With perfect emotional and mental balance, it will help to convey the message I have. Retain a charitable demeanor and remember to think before acting.

Out With The Old, In With The New

2010-09-17T04:53:00.000-07:00

DAILY DRAW

THEME: Eight of Wands

The energy of this time of year is as abundant as the harvest. Today will continue to be a high energy time, giving way to creativity. Do the things you want to do as well as those you need to do.

GUIDE: Eight of Cups

With the energy so high, beginning new things will come easier. Also, clearing away that which is no longer needed. Face the Brave New World uncluttered with things of the past which don't serve you.

MEDITATION: The Chariot

This is the perfect time to move forward. Meditate on what comes next. Focus on plans, but also on the details.

THE SHADOW CARD: The Empress

The Great Mother of Tarot underscores the idea of putting things in order. A little nesting will go a long way. Nurture your home (both mundane and Spiritual). Cleanse your homes and enjoy the process.

WHAT IT ALL MEANS:

A time of gret energy ope the way for new endeavors. Moving forward will be easy and the maternal instinct will be supportive of your plans.

Cruising With Illusion and Delusion

2010-09-14T06:32:00.000-07:00

DAILY DRAW

THEME: Five of Cups

Today may be filled with a sense of FEELING stuck. I often have tunnel vision when it comes to hitting obstacles. But the day can also be the opportunity of turning to see there is a way out of this 'rut' and the path is STILL beneath my feet.

GUIDE: Nine of Wands

I am licking my wounds waiting for the next round. With tomorrow in my mind, I find myself waiting to see what will happen next. I am guided to take advantage of this resting period, to renew my energy; to clear and cleanse myself and remain grounded.

MEDITATION: Eight of Swords

Even while I feel I stand against all odds, I am guided to meditate on the reality that this feeling is self-created and to live mindfully, in the moment, where I am not bound and blind-folded

SHADOW CARD: Wheel of Fortune

This speaks quite well of the whole reading. I am stuck at the bottom of the wheel, clinging to all the negatives. Let go. This too shall pass.

WHAT IT ALL MEANS:

I begin turned in on myself. I am guided to look up, at what I'm doing - binding and blinding myself to it. Meditation allows me to hear the mechanism of the Wheel. It is illusion! Know this and I am free!!!

Daily Draw

2010-09-11T09:45:00.000-07:00

DAILY DRAW

THEME: The Lovers

This is a day to concentrate on my partner and me. This will be a day to let our love shine more brightly and to support each other.

GUIDE: Ten of Wands

I am guided to NOT let the burden of the past weigh me down. Move forward slowly, until I can let some of the energy of my anger about the events of yesterday to disapate.

MEDITATION: Justice

My eye is drawn to the sword and I am reminded to let rational thought in. Meditate on how to proceed; what is the best in this moment. Balance my thoughts so the scales are not tipped in any one direction.

SHADOW CARD: The Moon

Someone recently suggested that THE MOON often casts shadows to make things appear other than they really are. If my thinking goes awry, keep in mind that I may not be seeing what really happened, but rather through glasses of bias. The ripples seen in the pond are also of thought, as well as those of action.

WHAT IT ALL MEANS

Concentrate on loving and support in this 'healing' time. Don't let all the burdens of the past weigh on me. See with clarity how to proceed and to not allow the shadows to mislead me. Progress is made when I can let go of the past.

Daily Draw Reflection

2010-09-05T05:59:00.000-07:00

DAILY DRAW

THEME: Four of Cups

There is a feeling of discontent. I have had more moments of this of late and it has me looking at what this is about. What is gnawing at me? This will be a day of contemplating this conundrum. Remember, THE WOMEN movie... it stirred up some things.

GUIDE: Two of Cups

I'm being guided to seek the answer with an open mind and an open heart, approaching thoughts and feelings with love.

MEDITATION: Queen of Swords

Cut Through the emotional tangle with a sharp mind.

SHADOW CARD: Six of Wands

Today the Shadow Card speaks of the outcome, if I follow the course laid out above: Triumph! An answer will come to light.

WHAT IT ALL MEANS:

Puzzling out a problem will be triumphant if I approach it with an open and loving heart and a sharp and clear mind.

Daily Draw Reflection

2010-09-04T05:55:00.000-07:00

DAILY DRAW

THEME: The Seeker

New journies, new beginnings and everyday is a new day with no mistakes in it yet. But are there mistakes really? More like opportunities to learn lessons. My eye sees the white rose wreath with the feather in it and the flute. I walk freely with an open, pure heart and mind, following the music of Nature.

GUIDE: Seven of Wands

I am guided to be at the ready for any eventuality; to stand strong and let go of fear. Face adversity fearlessly.

MEDITATION: Ten of Pentacles

These are hard times for the family. Keeping all the members of the family in my heart, sending healing thoughts to all.

SHADOW CARD: The Magician

This speaks of the journey; it is a time for healing, to be ready for anything. It involves the family and using all the best of the elements will be needed. There is strength, courage, passion and mastery at my finger tips.

WHAT IT ALL MEANS: See this as a new beginning. Stand strong, and be at the ready. Concentrate on the family... this is the foundation of the reading and meditation. Find the strength, courage, passion and mastery from this teacher in navigating the day and the events within.

Two of Wands

2010-09-01T09:34:00.000-07:00

This is different. There is a greater quiet in this Wand card. As with the 2 of Pentacles, this person is dressed in all the clolors, as if all the elements are represented; all take part in the balance.

A young man stands, looking out upon the water from a castle. The sky is peacefully cloudy. He is seen from a semi-profile, his back to the viewer. He holds a wand in his left hand and a second wand is secured to the battlement wall - showing he stands in balance. He hold a globe in his right hand - he is worldly; has the world at his finger tips. He appears very controlled, yet gives a sense of meditating. This is peaceful. Well balanced. Looking outward, forward.

[key] kindness, generosity, intelligent, creative.

Wait and watch.

Balance between stillness and activity = Active Waiting.

Ace of Wands

2010-08-29T07:46:00.000-07:00

A very energized image. The wand is filled with fire, throwing out rays from the flames. The wand hovers quite close to the ground. Between and above two sun flowers can be seen. Beyond it, only sky - blue sky.

[key]

Creation, power - new life. Creative energy, beginning of growth or life.
Increase, inheritance, birth, adventure, virility fertility, evolution, unfolding possibilities.

In a reading, it signifies spiritual evolution. Could mean seeker's job or dreams are evolving into something else. Balances. Intelligence and emotions, rational thought and dreams. Activity and rest.

This is quite interesting, since my daily draw THEME of the day is the Ace of Wands.

Daily Draw Reflection

2010-08-26T09:49:00.000-07:00

DAILY DRAW

THEME: Judgment

This is a day about releasing that which is no longer needed. I am rising above some issues that I am having. I am beginning to let go of some things from the past.

GUIDE: Nine of Swords

The Theme of the day flows into my Guiding Card and allows me to recognize the thoughts and/or beliefs attached to fear which are not real, but of my own making. I am given the opportunity to let go of these things.

MEDITATION: Nine of Pentacles

The harvest is full and as this cycle ends, I can walk through the land of things finished and see the work which was done and taste and enjoy the fruits of my labors. I am guided to meditate on the process which brought me to this point.

SHADOW CARD: Seven of Cups

Following the Guide and Meditation - letting go and reaping the harvest, I stand ready to move toward the next step. Which dreams are ready and open for entry and will further my progress? This speaks of CHOICES.

WHAT IT ALL MEANS:

The two nines here stress the ending, and thus the beginning of cycle.
As I release things no longer needed, especially that which only impedes my progress, I can take a moment to assess my achievements and then move on to the next phase: The choices are many.

Celebration of Light

2010-08-25T05:38:00.000-07:00

PAGE OF WANDS

Here is a work in progress. The image, while not showing physical movement, has great energy in it. It makes me feel curious. I want to know more.

The image shows a young girl standing on a dirt road, both hands wrapped around a great wand. Light is glinting off of the crystal at the top.

Practice, inquisitiveness about her work with energy. As with the other pages, she is involved with learning the ways of her realm. Her tunic is the color of the Kingdom, without great flair of flames. Her belt is of the same color and pattern of the Fool's left leg trew. This might show she exhibits the masculine power of her realm. Her hair itself, resembles a lion's mane.

Unlike the others of her family, there are no companions.

*song for the Page of Wands: Celebration of Light

Street Wise Hercules

2010-08-23T15:27:00.000-07:00

KNIGHT OF WANDS

"Where's the streetwise Hercules to fight the rising odds?
Isn't there a white knight upon a fiery steed?...

...He's gotta be strong
and he's gotta be fast
And he's gotta be fresh from the fight.

He's gotta be sure
and it's gotta be soon
And he's gotta be larger than life!"*

* * *

Here is wildness, sweeping in and making himself known. Showy, but with control. The I-NEED-A-HERO guy of song. His style has a sense of mystery due to his armor, while at the same time you KNOW who it is.

There is somewhat less control of his use of energy - Wildfire!
He's joyful, brilliant, strong. There is a sense of overwhelming (perhaps a bit overstate?) passion and bravery. Courage, daring, someone looking for a cause to champion and preferably a LOST cause. There is also loyalty, fearlessness and nobility shown here. He is proud, and has the capacity to be aggressive, even violent, if the situation call for it.

[image]

In the same kingdom landscape, the Knight makes a splashy entrance. His body, though barely covered, is protected in the places which are most vulnerable (head, heart, loins). As a companion, his fiery steed is full of his master's energy. The knight's helmet is that of a lion. This harkins back again to the Magician.

This card can also mean a journey or a change of residence.

*song for Knight Wands: I Need A Hero by Bonnie Tyler

Balancing Act Daily Draw

2010-08-22T08:08:00.000-07:00

DAILY DRAW

THEME: Two of Swords

The Theme speaks of balance, but it speaks of being unable to see myself in space and time, and not knowing if I am or I am not balanced. As a clarifier, I will look at whether this is balance of inner work, or balance of the mundane:

The Clarifier shows the Ten of Wands, which indicates that I am unbalanced in the mundane. I am not balancing work. It speaks of taking on too much work. Not getting the rest I need, or the time I need for myself. I will look further into how to balance myself here after this reading.

GUIDE: Two of Pentacles

How interesting that this comes as my Guide. This speaks of balancing with play. I am guided to find more time for myself. I will have to review the situation and find what needs to be rearranged.

MEDITATION: Seven of Swords

This is interesting, because the first thought is 'covert ops' and meditating on how to 'steal' time for myself. Part of reviewing the situation. Is it like taking from so and so to give to such much, or how ever that saying really goes? More reiviewing.

SHADOW CARD: Two of Wands

Okay, this is THREE twos coming into my daily reading. This means it is a significant reading, and I should not just do the reading and get on with the rest of my day... I should take action, though... here's the kicker, this Two is of balance in the watching and waiting arena. So hmmmm....

OH, and lets not forget that I had two jumper cards that fell out of the deck during my shuffle. The first was the Queen of Pentacles... which speaks quite clearly of meditation, so I need to not just STEAL time, I need to sit and meditate on this situation. The second, and this is where it gets downright eerie (?)... The Two of Cups was the second card. Now, that's balance in ALL suits. That can mean, over balanced (which I doubt, but who can tell), or it can mean that I seriously need to make changes and that all of the aspects: work (pentacles), intellect/mind (Swords), Energy/creativity/beginnings/all the things which the ACE of Wands brought into my meditation yesterday (Wands) and of course the one that got away, but is remembered, the Emotions (Cups).... So I'm either seriously out of whack (or just whack) or I'm over balanced, and I should chill some... but that doesn't exactly jive, when it comes to the mundane... I mean, while I complain a lot, the fact is, comparatively speaking, I don't do jack (or know him for that matter), so what's it all about alphie?:

WHAT IT ALL MEANS: Balance is the name of the game, from every side, in every arena. It's time to take a look; do the Emperor thing... I actually am about ready to begin working with him on the Tarot for Your Self front... that may be why this came up. Ducks in a row, and all that - sounds familiar?

Company's Comin'

2010-08-21T08:16:00.000-07:00

QUEEN OF WANDS

"Folks come from miles around
Jumping up and jumping down,
Carrying off,
Carrying on
Til the break of dawn..."*

The Court was full of energy, and I had to say I didn't see any unhappy or dissatisfied faces of those who served in The Court. And I soon learned that the Queen, like her husband, was the reason. A joyousness that was like an energetic sprite filled the air around her. She was all laughter, and gayity, running her domain with exuberance, an infectious sense of fun, that sent out its tendrils to engage all those working there with the same energy. It reminded me of the Peaceful Kingdom in the way that friendliness bubbled over into the activity, and the sense of being welcomed was good. It was the animated extreme of the peaceful sense from the first kingdom I'd visited. I was given delicious food, and lodging for as long as I needed, or wanted. I was invited to join in all of the goings-on of the realm.
I remembered I felt welcomed in the Peaceful Kingdom. Here, I felt I belonged. Either way, it was nice to be with lively, fun-loving folk.

I like this card; this Queen. She is very welcoming. While the landscape remains the same, one of her two compainions is a beautiful copse of sunflowers. The other is a charcoal gray cat. Like her paramour, she holds a crystal staff. There is greater motion in her - almost a sense of a pixie; her eyes twinkle with a sense of knowing what nobody else does, yet. Her gown seems more like a flower, the sense of flames are played down, though the colors are the same. Perhaps she is somewhat more refined. The feminine energy is softer, while still radiant.

[insights]

Here is considerable energy, warmth and passion. She's fond of Nature, generous, yet practical and pragmatic.

*Song for The Queen of Wands: Company's Comin' by Poco

Interview Reading

2010-08-14T06:30:00.000-07:00

INTERVIEW READING
The Robin Wood Deck

1. Tell me about yourself
What is your most important characteristic?
THE MOON

I am in the spiritual tradition of the Goddess. I work from the feminine aspect and guide both wild and domestic beings. Hidden mysteries are my most important characteristic and I illuminate the ripples of action.

2. What are your strengths as a deck?
THE HERMIT

I am a guiding light for all seekers. Teaching those who come to me. I shine a light upon the footsteps of all who have come this way. Silence and solitude work hand in hand with contemplation and meditation to aid your journey.

3. What are your limits as a deck?
THREE OF SWORDS

I don't hide the harsh truths. I don't sugar coat things to make it easy for you. Sometimes things hurt and I will show these to you as well. I am tough love. I may not always make sense.

4. What do you bring to the table?
What will you teach me?
TWO OF PENTACLES

Balance is my primary teaching. I speak of teaching you how to balance yourself, your life, in all aspects and eventualities.

5. How can I best learn and collaborate with you?
THE STAR

Seek the light, practice your rituals, and follow the rules you set for yourself when you work.

6. What is the potential outcome of our work together?
TWO OF CUPS

The potential of integration of the physical and spiritual self, and an abiding friendship and love is the greatest possible outcome.

FIRE

2010-08-12T10:04:00.000-07:00

KING OF WANDS

Hmmmmm Wands you say? Here I was thinking it would be cups. Who knew? But had I been thinking, I'd have known. Robin is following the casting of the circle from The North on around.

Pentacles = Earth in the North of the circle.
Swords = Air in the East of the circle.
Wands = Fire in the South of the circle.

I bid adieu to The Blades. It was not really a sad farewell, but on the other hand, I did meet some good folk and see things from a much more stark perspective. As I walked off down the road away from the Kingdom of Swords, I wondered where my journey would take me.

If I'd thought the landscape where I'd spent the last month was meager, what I began to notice as I sat and rested after a few hours walk, was that the desert had taken hold here. Nothing seemed to grow, and the few critters which crossed my path either slithered, or skittered across the non-roadway.

I was startled by a voice from behind. "Company. Excellent!" I turned and looked up at a tall lanky man, whose crown, only, gave him away as royalty. Upon first glance, I thought his clothing was tattered, ragged. But I realized as I stood, this was how his robes were designed. "Welcome to Firesign Theater," he said, chuckling.

"Who are you?" I asked.

"I am..." he paused a moment. "What I am."

He stood there, one hand clasped around a rather impressive crystal staff, terminated on top, catching and radiating the sun, in a singularity of sorts. His other hand was open, palm up, speaking as much of what he said about himself, as his words did.

"Come, you'll break bread with us, and rest through the heat of the day, should it please you. I know it would please us." He turned, and gestured for me to follow, and I noticed, then that a critter was scrambling along side of him, keeping close. To be sure, I thought it might be a baby dragon of some kind. Fascinating.

I liked this man, right away. His friendliness, while different from the King of Pentacles, was possibly more winning, like he didn't need all the beauty and peace of the Peaceful Kingdom for his essence to shine through. I had to ponder, in fact, on whether the sun did not radiate directly from him. I actually was reminded of The Magician, whom I'd met way back, and whose demeanor felt remarkably like this man's.

[insights]

Here is light. Here is Energy, vibrating in the air itself. Here is Fire. Will. There is a sense that this is the beginning of life; the way 'star stuff' might begin to coalesce into a world. This is the place of the timeline of life in all its aspects; the stages of growth. The sense of easy thoughts translating into nimble words, yet self-controlled. Here is Energy used wisely, creatively.

Song for King of Wands: FIRE by Bruce Springsteen

First FULL DECK Daily Draw

2010-08-10T08:32:00.000-07:00

FIRST FULL DECK
DAILY DRAW

THEME: Page of Swords

My eyes note first the spyglass upon the belt of the Page, and this means this will be a day of looking for what is needed to continue. Organizing my thoughts as this new phase of my work begins. All Pages represent a beginning, a learning, and so it will be as I move from the seat of meeting to the place where I will begin applying, and settling into a routine, but also seeking information on creating my Sacred Space, and making a bag or my cards (the box is falling apart). The page also reminds me to communicate more frequently with others, and ask questions so I can gain greater insight.

GUIDE: Eight of Wands

The excitement and energy with this transition has my Universe expanding, and I am soaring up into the vastness of All That Is. I am guided to temper my exuberance so that I can organize myself. Of interest, The Eight of Wands was in yesterday's draw, coming today from The Shadow Card, to GUIDE me.

MEDITATION: Three of Pentacles

Today's meditation brings me to a Mastercrafts man, who teaches me that true mastery takes time; to concentrate on each step, and ensure it affords me the greatest success. A lot of work goes into any project, and layout my plans for this next stage, organize myself so that movement will be smooth, and create the best way for myself to work. Learning from others is of great importance, but creating my own style will be where the magic comes into the equation.

SHADOW CARD: Six of Pentacles

I feel rich today, but it is important to balance myself, and not only seek what others are willing to give, but also to return in kind. Become more involved in the community. We are not islands, and learning, even on the Spirit Realm, is done so I can live more beautifully, and that means in concert with others.

WHAT IT ALL MEANS

As a new phase begins, looking toward how to organize my studies, and learning how to live and work with my Teacher is the form of this new period. There is great excitement, and well there should be, though, it is important not to expend too much energy, as there is much work to be done. There will be organizing, and drawing up plans for what is needed as the next phase clicks into place. Remember to balance myself in the richness of the feeling in which I am luxuriating, to both give and take... exchange is important.

2010-08-07T14:11:00.001-07:00

TEN OF SWORDS

"Riders on the storm
Into this house we're born
Into this world we're thrown
Like a dog without a bone,
An actor out on loan..."*

! ! !

Shall I doubt what my eyes perceive? Here I see, perhaps, that which is actual death. Overkill, is more like it. Execution, slaughter, assassinated.

Is the deceased of another land or kingdom?

The image shows a surrounding darkness and yellow river - Luck has run out? - flowing off into the distance. In the foreground is a body of a slain man. Ten different swords have been plunged into his body. BLood is spilled. Loss of a battle? even a war (seeing this is the last card of the suit?). The clothing appears to be deep purple (royalty?) Beneath that he wore an orange/gold tunic. It appears snow is surrounding the body - The winter of life?

[Robin's key words]

misfortune, ruin, defeat, failure, pain, desolation, beyond tears, total betrayal, OR end of the above and the beginning of hope. "Culmination of all swords; the end of strife is suggested. Sacrifice and transformation."

*song for Ten Of Swords: Riders On The Storm by The Doors

Welcome To My Nightmare

2010-08-06T08:18:00.000-07:00

NINE OF SWORDS

"...You tell me your blue skies fade to gray,
Tell me your passion's gone away
And I don't need no carryin' on

You stand in the line just to hit a new low,
You're faking a smile, with the coffe to go

You tell me your life's been way offline
You're fallin' to pieces every time..."*

! ! !

There was a book I remember called, "when bad things happen to good people," and if I had to look at one kingdom this applied to it would definitely be The Blades. I mean, come on, being tied up, trying hard just to stay above water, point blank, right through the heart. No wonder these people have bad dreams. Bad days, is more like it. And it's not bad enough to have to deal with it in the waking time, but to have it follow you, dog you in your sleep. That's just wrong.

I'd hear her in the night, but never could actually figure out where she was. It wasn't a wailing, but a muffled sobbing, sometimes a moaning. But it was always there, like it said in the movie, 'The Haunting,' "...Nobody will hear you scream, in the night in the dark. Nobody will come any closer, in the night, in the dark." I'm thinking this place is ripe for a shrink.

I eventually would fall back to sleep, but I had to wonder what was so wrong? Why didn't anybody seem to want to help?

[insights]

The darkness behind the nine swords, which line the wall behind the girl, speaks of the dark places that scare you. Awakened from sleep, the nightmare remains. Whether real or simply a figment of the imagination, the swords tell of being imprisoned. There is fear and sadness. Here is suffering, desolation, doubt, misery; a vicious cycle of brooding about past injuries, that bring on illness, anxiety and distress.

The sad part is that with the swords not being real, it's just symbolic of going around and around, gnawing at a problem. How utterly frustrating!

*song for Nine Of Swords: Bad Day by Daniel Powter

In Your Head They Are Fighting

2010-08-05T08:57:00.000-07:00

EIGHT OF SWORDS

"And the violence caused such silence
Who are we mistaken?
But you see, it's not me
It's not my family
In your head,
In your head they are fighting..."*

! ! !

I had the most vivid dreams in this place. I was standing near the top of a hill, looking down toward the sea, when I saw her. Bound, blindfolded and almost completely surrounded by swords that were near six feet tall. A red length of sash wound around her body, shoulders to hips, beneath which she wore a tattered white gown; shredded, giving off a the definite sense of violation. Who had put her there? And why? What had she done? To whom? Terror wafted off her in waves, and I could see her shivering, not because the tides sometimes washed over her feet, around her legs, but out of pure fear.

[insights]

This is a card that feels like an impossible situation. It reminds me of Temptation where a person embodies enslavement, captivity, having been ravaged, imprisoned. It speaks of danger, or believing you're in danger; of being a victim, possibly even the spoils of war.

Her innocence and purity has been shredded. The obvious ideas abound: fear, bondage, restriction, especially through inaction. Also censure, and possibly illness, difficulties, and even paralysis, like the restriction, due to indecision. In general, feeling the task ahead is simply impossible.

The blindfold represents being unable to see your way out of a situation.

Water, the element of cups, is related to emotion.

*Song for Eight Of Swords: Zombie by the Cranberries

Covert Ops

2010-08-04T08:20:00.001-07:00

SEVEN OF SWORDS

"Black of day, dark of night
We share this paralyze.
The door cracks open, but there's no sun shining through
Black heart, scarring darker still,
But there's no sun shining through

What I've felt, what I've known,
Turn the pages, turn to stone
Behind the door, should I open it for you?

Yeah, what I've felt, what I've known,
Sick and tired, I stand alone..."*

! ! !

One thing I learned, if I learned anything at all, is you have to get your hands dirty if you're gonna really come to know what these people's lives are about. It was one thing living the high life in the Peaceful Kingdom, passing quickly by the parts of it all that nobody talked about. Here, in the place where life and death hanging in the balance is what defines the essence of the Kingdom of the Blade, I was sinking into the swill of quicksand which was part and parcel for those whose lives play out here.

It was true, a lot of the time, 'there's no sun shining through.' The skies were stormy, and I knew if I was the street urchin Oliver, I wouldn't be able to escape Bill Sikes any more than I could avoid my brush with covert ops right here.

When I saw him, skulking around, slipping in and out of the shadows, lifting the prize blades, now, no longer some training exercise, but the real thing, I immediately connected him to the kid I saw not long ago, learning the tricks of the trade. The chance always exists that someone will take the lessons, and go to the dark side of the Force. What makes it so is anybody's guess. Is it inborn? Conditioned in?

I was standing watching, wided eyed, that imagined flash forward, from the Logan5 of The Blades. Then I wondered about it, and now I felt as if I'd traveled through the decades to Blade5 (now Blade7), a runner, price on his head, disgruntled and either not caring enough for where his actions might lead him, or having fully embraced the Sith within.

Cloaked, and with a stealth that was a skill honed from both his early days, and from a life where success relied entirely on not being detected.

The Seven-ness lies within the bounty this thief pulled in.

[insights]

The general idea of this card would be seen in ideas of betrayal, spying, infiltration. Other possible ways to see this is however, might be found in the idea of stealth, and bravery.

What I find interesting is the sequence of cards here, where Blade5 is followed by the 6, what is the 'rite of passage' which then is followed by Blade7, showing the possibility of a more honorable meaning here.

*song for Seven of Swords: Unforgiven ii by Metallica

The Path To Glory

2010-08-02T12:15:00.000-07:00

SIX OF SWORDS

"He's a man in his glory,
A boy in his dreams,
And he's living his living his life in between.

Tomorrow will answer yesterday's dreams
While today he is living in between...

The pathway to glory
Is a long road, it seems
And he's living his life in between."*

! ! !

The world is rife with stories of that time in a person's life when they cross the threshold from childhood to adulthood. The traditional, modern day ones are all about confirmnations, and bar mitvots, and how all peoples celebrate that moment in life when a boy becomes a man and girl becomes a woman. It got me thinking what kind of rite of passage a Blade might have? Fighting dragons, or a first hunt, or winning in competitions that so many courts of all the lands seem to love.

This isn't something which simply popped into my head. Even if I had not just witnessed the 'home coming' of a successful youngster, this had been simmering beneath the surface, as my own journey continued. The things I have learned have gone beyond amazing, when you consider the mundane world of our timeline. So, after I'd seen the boy-become-a-man return to the celebration of his feats, that would likely be told and retold for generations to come, joining the myriad other stories throughout the generations, I wondered where these kinds mettle testing trials had gone over time.

This was the kind of rite which seemed so much more substantial comparatively speaking. What would it be like to have tests to pass, during a journey which might last days, weeks, who knew how long? What would it feel like to be riding across a river to a distant shore, where eons of others's footsteps were etched upon the ground, if not physically, at least the echo of them could be heard in the whispers of the wind, the rustle of the leaves, the darkness in a cave? Their Guide might have been a dragonlord of old, or a great legandary warrior whose ghost, stands like The Hermit atop the mountain, lantern held high, casting the glow, the light at the end of the tunnel, leading the way home. My heart aches with wanting this kind of experience, but I am still too mired in the superficial land of illusion. The most I can hope for in the moment, at any rate, is to live vicariously in the tales told.

[impression and image] There is peace and expectation in this card. The young man glides quietly across the water in a beautiful crafted Swan boat. There is balance with three swords on either side of the front of the boat. Behind the occupant of the boat is an ethereal image of the Spirit Guide who brings this young man forth. The water on the left is placid and less so on the right side. The landscape is more rich and alive than is normally seen in the Kingdom of Blades. There is a dark cave with a pool, near the shore, with a single star shining within and reflected upon the water. There are no storm clouds apparent here.

The rider wears a white tunic, under a purple cloak, and red pants. There is a black band around his arm, representative of mourning... but what loss? The inside of the boat is gold. The six-ness here, shown in the swords, are the six challenges which have been met and won in this rite of passage.

[insights]

This is passing from one state of consciousness to another, higher state. Another meaning can be leaving 'troubles' behind, going to a place of safety, and finding understanding. In itself, being in a boat, can signify a journey by water.

*song for the Six of Swords: Pathway To Glory by Loggins and Messina

Questions on

2010-08-02T10:32:00.000-07:00

NOTE TO SELF: get information on significance of a number showing up in a reading two or more times.

The Trickster

2010-07-31T13:39:00.000-07:00

FIVE OF SWORDS

"Robin Hood, what a crook,
Gave away what he took.
Charity's fine,
Subscribe to mine,
Get out and pick a pocket or two..."*

! ! !

"Let the games begin," seemed to be the morning wake-up call here. Instead of calisthenics, exercises were about different levels of practice, not only of sword play, but of strategic maneuvering. Sometimes there were teams competing against each other, and then there were individuals who were focusing on the many ways a sword could be used specifically, working their way down the line of dummy enemies, slashing, and stabbing, and adding fancy footwork, to avoid being slammed with the swinging bags which hung from tree limbs, to provide a moving target.

Perhaps the most interesting of all was the game I'd call 'deception.' In the world where armies ruled, where defense, and offense were highly touted and honed skills, the rule seemed to be for the individual gamer to plan and execute an attack on their opponent. The object of the exercise was to steal the weapons from the enemy, and, it seemed, at the end of the day, the one with the most swords won.

I watched one particular Blade put his plan into action, and amazingly managed to beat the others time after time, day after day. Was he breaking the rules, in some way? Probably, but within the kingdom, it seemed his kid had achieved the highest of honors for his ability to dupe the others, leaving a trail of disappointment in his wake. Should I admire this? Something told me, in this world, it was something of which to be proud. It would not be so in the Peaceful Kingdom. But as the saying goes, alls fair in love and war. I had to admire his nerve and his skill.

[image]
The five aspect shows clearly that here are people who are unaware of another, and of what has been taken from them. There is a definite happiness and satisfaction in the face of the thief.

None here wears the blue of the suit, which would imply infiltration, or intrusion; unknown, until it is too late and the goods have become someone's booty.

[insight]

deception, trickery, sneaky, thievery

Song for The Five Of Swords: Pick A Pocket Or Two from Oliver Soundtrack

Suit Review for Wands

2010-07-29T08:55:00.000-07:00

Using the spread I created for the first two Suit Reviews:

*******11******
*******1*******
****3*****2****
****5*****4****
**13***6***12**
****8*****7****
*******9*******
******10*******
******14*******

1. What have I learned from The Wands?

Knight of Wands - The control of energy and its uses

2. Where does my strength lie?

Five of Wands - Finding the patterns in the chaos.

3. What area needs more work?

Nine of Wands - waiting, patience, especially under duress.

4. What do I understand most?

Ten of Wands - Becoming overburdened.

5. What puzzles me most?

Four of Wands - Combining forces; unification.

6. What magical attributes does the Wands teach?

Seven of Wands - How Energy enhances bravery, against all odds

7. Who is my greatest teacher?

King of Wands - In a word, the Magician within the King.

8. What helps me communicate better?

Page of Wands - Practice

9. What will help with self-control?

Queen of Wands - Allowing the Feminine aspect to drive.

10. What will enhance spiritual evolution?

Ace of Wands - Mastery of Energy in all of its aspects.

11. How can I use my Will better?

Eight of Wands - approach this from the 3rd level (Cosmic) Majors point of view.

12. What will enhance my creativity?

Six of Wands - Triump and continued success. The more I do, the more I can do.

13. How do I expend energy carelessly?

Two of Wands - If I do not wait for the right moment, the use of Energy is wasted.

14. What other element complements my work?

Three of Wands - Water normally an contrary element for Fire, complements it by tempering the excessive use, thus waste, of my energy.

A Drop Of Silence

2010-07-28T08:06:00.001-07:00

FOUR OF SWORDS

A full day of work, now done, training, learning; life goes on in the Court of the Crimson King. I had not been able to figure out what to call The Blades, but I suppose, The Crimson King works well enough. Blood, war, strategy. I wasn't the happiest camper being here, but I knew I still had much to learn, so I found solace in moonlight walks, seeking out the places which came as close as any to the Peaceful Kingdom.

This night, as I made my way into a wooded area, I found, what, at first, I thought might be a graveyard. Within a wooded glen, I came across an old world tomb. The top of the stone sarcophagus was sculpted, depicting the figure of a knight in repose. Hands crossed upon his chest, there was a shield, representing the realm, displaying an eagle's wing and a star. Here was the closest area to a full garden I'd found, with blooming trees - more spring than the usual. At once I think of honoring the dead - a hero's funeral. I stroll slowly around, gazing at a single star seen in the deep purple of the sky. How peaceful; how unlike the high energy of the rest of the kingdom. Examining the tomb, I draw my fingers over one sword which is affixed there. I note three others which I believe to be offerings from comrads, honoring this fallen warrior, hanging from the tree. This is akin to the tomb of the unknown soldier, though he would have been fully known by the others.

There are yellow, red, pink and white roses blooming in the foreground. Strangly it is the one place I feel most at home.

"Beautiful, isn't it?" I hear someone say. I look back to the trail, opening from the path leading in. I nod. "It's not what you're thinking," a tall, slender young woman I recognize as the Page, continues. "This is a sort of 'sanctuary,' I guess you'd call it. It's those who've been in battle, or gone through some quest, come to rest, recover from their sojourns.

"But what of the tomb?" I ask.

"Sometimes, it takes something on the level of a mallet to get the point over to take a time out." She smiles, her eyes glinting. "Hard headed people are like that."

It all made sense in a strange way. Though I wondered what they did with those who had died in battle. Before I had chance to ask, my companion had gone, allowing the peace of the moment to give me the sense of the place.

This is a quiet card. In ways it is more reminiscent of the element Earth than the element Air. But there are always two sides to a coin, or in this case, two edges of a blade. These were simply not a people who were given to solemnity, I supposed.

Song for The Four Of Swords: A Drop Of Silence by Kitaro

Full Moon Reading

2010-07-25T18:20:00.000-07:00

***3***
***2***
***1***
***0***

1.- What can be seen with clarity, so bright that can even blind you.

THE LOVERS - The time between the New Moon and now, has been all about my partner and I and how we're going through an ordeal together. TOGETHERNESS, and SUPPORT and becoming stronger as a couple is blossoming out with such clarity that everything else pales in comparison.

2.- What gets completed. What closes a cycle.

THE STAR - A considerable ordeal has been evolving and we are currently right at the peak (or just past it) though there isn't enough light shed on the outcome of it to allow us to know the final result. What is important is that there is encouragement, and is needed to light the way to the next phase.

3.- What begins to fade away, to darken, to abandon you... or what needs to be.

THE WHEEL OF FORTUNE - With great relief, I couldn't agree more that I need to let go of the seat I currently occupy on The Wheel.

0.- Yourself. Shadow card, from the base of the deck.

EIGHT OF PENTACLES - I need to focus on gathering up and putting my demons back in their cages. I've allowed them to escape, or they have during my moment of weakness, and I have learned a great deal from this time. It is time to return to the classroom of Panic Management and intensely review how to manage.

Unbreak My Heart

2010-07-24T07:31:00.000-07:00

THREE OF SWORDS

"Don't leave me in all this pain
Don't leave me out in the rain.
Come back, and bring back my smile
Come and take these tears away...

Unbreak my heart,
Say you'll love me again..."*

! ! !

This is a chilling image. I had to stop and think what the 'three-ness' was. I don't see mastering here, though the heart is red - courage, passion. The image shows a heart, like the Ace, suspended in the sky, but here it is pierced by three swords, one definitely (from my perspective) dripping blood. It is raining, which to me means tears; the sky gray, the sun hidden. It feels more like the 5 from the Pents: total despair. This is a broken heart.

The swords are each different. Is this the mastery of destruction? Beating the enemy down?

From an outside perspective, this is all saddness, depression. Perhaps from the inside (Sword people) perspective, it is about winning - the middle of the battle? Or simply tears of woe?

MANY DAYS LATER:

Life's been really getting 'too much fun' (as the tow truck driver said when our car broke down in near triple digit temps when we were living in Texas)... a eupemism for no joy, bad times, trying times... yadda yadda yadda. Anyway, the love of my life, my life's partner is going through some health issues that leave him in tremendous pain, and ... long story short, he went through a medical procedure, which while successful, the recovery process is big time bad/hard. The morning of the procedure, I did a daily at the hotel near the facility where the 'surgery' would take place. Typical (as my blog shows) THEME, GUIDE, MEDITATION and SHADOW CARD. So, the 3 of swords shows up in that reading in the meditation spot. I freaked just seeing it there, but had to really think about what it would mean in terms of a card to meditate on. Here was my take on it:

The heart break of seeing my sweetheart suffering brings with it that pain goes with healing. Meditate on the fixing of things for which the procedure was needed.

I realize sometimes I don't actually associate my reading with things in my day as much as with my spiritual/inner work. But a daily draw, must by virtue of the fact it reflects on the WHOLE day, not just one aspect, get me to look at the bigger picture.

Of course this brings up so many other kinds of questions about readings, and meanings which I need to really begin looking at, talking with others about it, and such much.

*song for Three of Swords: Unbreak My Heart by Toni Braxton

Daily Draw Reflection

2010-07-17T09:18:00.001-07:00

DAILY DRAW

THEME The Seeker

There is a sense that I am finally back to being myself. I began this journey right here, though, now I have gone through much. It is obvious that I will see things in a very different way, or perhaps not. Truth be told, this reflects a sense of relief, that things, for the moment are status quo. I am transforming, and with the sun shining, and a six day hiatus before we're back in that gerbil wheel running around in circles again, I feel like things are back to normal. Thus, I'm jauntily walking along, as I had been; wiser, having learned. But still, with a happy heart that sees optimistically again. Yes, I must be ever vigilant as I enjoy this merry day, this I know. Things, after all, change on a dime. But for today, I will be happily seated in the shoes of The Seeker who set out one hundred and five days ago (meeting myself for the first time) and continue to meet and greet new folks, and pow wow with old friends and acquaintences. In other words, this will be a fairly normal day, comparatively speaking.

GUIDE: King of Swords

It is the stance I am drawn to here. That, how-dare-you-come-into-my-world-and-think-you-have-a-chance-to-do-anything-more-than-what-I-want. Stand firm on using this day for rest and recouperation. Keep those stormy clouds at bay, behind me, but always be at the ready to slay dragons should they swoop down into my realm.

MEDITATION: Queen of Swords

A United stand is seen here, but I am reminded to be more genteel, and let the feminine do the driving. We don't want brawls in the door yard today. Meditate on my strength, use my intellect and be ever the gracious Queen of my realm.

SHADOW CARD: The Sun

It doesn't matter how long this respite will be. Enjoy standing in the bright light of the sun, and play and celebrate the peace and momentary freedom. In truth, regardless of the way anything turned out, we are heading into a lull. Things worked out the way they should have (Where ever we go, there we are, not to mention, we are precisely where we are meant to be), and today we celebrate (our independance day, from the machines which not only threatened, but took more away from us than should be permitted).

WHAT IT ALL MEANS: Enjoy a return to peace and joy, and stand firm against attacks from the enemies, united with my significant other, and celebrate these days of freedom. Live in THIS moment, not in a future of our twisted imaginations.

Peaceful Rest

2010-07-15T08:39:00.000-07:00

FOUR OF SWORDS

A full day of work, now done, training, learning; life goes on in the Court of the Crimson King. I had not been able to figure out what to call The Blades, but I suppose, The Crimson King works well enough. Blood, war, strategy. I wasn't the happiest camper being here, but I knew I still had much to learn, so I found solace in moonlight walks, seeking out the places which came as close as any to the Peaceful Kingdom.

This night, as I made my way into a wooded area, I found, what, at first, I thought might be a graveyard. Within a wooded glen, I came across an old world tomb. The top of the stone sarcophagus was sculpted, depicting the figure of a knight in repose. Hands crossed upon his chest, there was a shield, representing the realm, displaying an eagle's wing and a star. Here was the closest area to a full garden I'd found, with blooming trees - more spring than the usual. At once I think of honoring the dead - a hero's funeral. I stroll slowly around, gazing at a single star seen in the deep purple of the sky. How peaceful; how unlike the high energy of the rest of the kingdom. Examining the tomb, I draw my fingers over one sword which is affixed there. I note three others which I believe to be offerings from comrads, honoring this fallen warrior, hanging from the tree. This is akin to the tomb of the unknown soldier, though he would have been fully known by the others.

There are yellow, red, pink and white roses blooming in the foreground. Strangly it is the one place I feel most at home.

"Beautiful, isn't it?" I hear someone say. I look back to the trail, opening from the path leading in. I nod. "It's not what you're thinking," a tall, slender young woman I recognize as the Page, continues. "This is a sort of 'sanctuary,' I guess you'd call it. It's for those who've been in battle, or gone through some quest, come to rest, recover from their sojourns.

"But what of the tomb?" I ask.

"Sometimes, it takes something on the level of a mallet to get the point over to take a time out." She smiled, her eyes glinting. "Hard headed people are like that."

It all made sense in a strange way. Though I wondered what they did with those who had died in battle. Before I had chance to ask, my companion had gone, allowing the peace of the place and moment to give me the sense of this little patch of paradise.

This is a quiet card. In ways it is more reminiscent of the element Earth than the element Air. But there are always two sides to a coin, or in this case, two edges of a blade. These were simply not a people who were given to solemnity, I supposed.

Song for The Four Of Swords: A Drop Of Silence by Kitaro

Unbreak My Heart

2010-07-13T17:22:00.000-07:00

New Moon Reading

2010-07-11T21:16:00.000-07:00

NEW MOON READING

The Dark of the Moon spread is not intended for looking outward on a situation, or for readings with a specific question in mind. Instead, its purpose is to look inward, and give you insight into your own life. An example of what this spread gives you would be the answer to, "Where is my life at now?"

1-------4
--2-7-5--
3-------6

1: Releasing. Things you should be letting go of in your life:

THE SUN - First, when I looked at this card, my mind was a blank. I might even had said, 'Huh?' It seemed to me that this card just didn't suit the position. To me, The Sun is about celebration, playing, fun. The idea of letting go of the playing and fun, and celebrations led me to think this might point to letting go of things that are frivolous.

I thought more about it, and considered that if the card also was about completion, what have I completed? It was at this point that I felt I wanted to use a clarifier card.

The High Priestess was the clarifier card. My first thought was that The High Priestess is about intuition. What block my intuition. First to mind was the masculine stronghold. Then came the crux: how about letting go of my distaste and dislike for the physical me. Accept myself - celebrate me. So let go of anything that is the antithesis of that.

2: Retaining. Things you should be holding close to you.

THE HANGED MAN - Another one of those 'hmmmm' cards for me. But I thought about the fact that I should hold close my ability to see things from all sides. And also, hold close to my inner work.

3: Receiving. Things that are coming into your life.

TRANSFORMATION [death] This seemed more to the point, and the title I'd given the card myself, told it all. My world is transforming me. The process is always evolving.

4: Surroundings. How the world around you is affecting you.

QUEEN OF PENTACLES - I had to think about what my surroundings really are. I had to consider how The Queen related to how the world around me affects me. There are good things and not so good things. As a whole, it is good, even getting better. With fuller purpose my environment takes on a more positive perspective. Life must go on though. Is it perfect? No. Is it unbearable? No. It is good for what it is.

The Queen is about abundance and practicality. Is my world peaceful? sometimes. Am I close to Nature? More than not... more than I have been.

5: Giving. What you should be giving to others.

JUSTICE - This felt like a no brainer: I should be giving fair treatment to others. Mostly to my partner who puts up with all my crap.

6: Beginning. Something new that will begin soon.

SIX OF PENTACLES - This to me means charity. But we are speaking of inner work, the inner world, so I charity from the true standpoint didn't fit, imo. However, what is about to begin is my meeting with the CUPS suit. It will be a far gentler suit (I think) than the SWORDS have been.

7: Your lesson. What you should be learning at this point.

FIVE OF PENTACLES - Right away I thought about the fact that I needed to learn to find the help I can't see is right here, under my nose. Learn to see the good that is there also. The first seems to fit more, but the latter, does hold water also. (too bad, I couldn't find an 'earth' metaphor :) ).

Two of Swords

2010-07-10T13:49:00.001-07:00

TWO OF SWORDS

"At first I was afraid,
I was petrified...

...You think I'd crumble,
You think that I'd lay down and die?
Oh no, not I,
I will survive..."*

! ! !

It is dark; it is night, and I hear calamity around me as if the ground is opening up and swallowing everything. Like I had within the dream in the Tower, I climb up and up and find myself staring out at a woman, sitting atop what looks like a stone throne, hugging her self, holding on to two swords, and on for dear life. The storm rages around us, and I notice, with a sense of puzzlement, that the moon stands out against the clouds.

I awaken on the bed of dried grass, wondering what it all means.

[image]
The difference in this card is striking. Instead of day, it is night. Instead of the sun, there is the moon. The skies are still stormy.

Two observances: the woman in the image is blind folded the way Justice is often depicted. Her appearance, with her long dark hair, is reminiscent of The High Priestess. She sits upon the stone battlement of a crumbling castle. This is poised above the water. The two-ness in the suits may be that each is 'out of its original element?

The woman holds a sword in each hand. A sense of being tested, of danger - like we seen in the Two of Pentacles - only it turns out there is assurance in holding one's balance.

[insights]
While the character of this card may not believe she can find her way out of this untenable situation, it is only her own blindness of the situation which holds her imprisoned.

*Song for Two Of Swords: I Will Survive by Gloria Gaynor

Ace Of Swords

2010-07-08T18:47:00.000-07:00

ACE OF SWORDS

"Forever trusting who we are
And nothing else matters."*

! ! !

The Ace of Swords gives the sense of that which is other worldly. The sword used by all in the Suit, hovers over the heart of the kingdom. It is silver of blade, and has a gold hilt and hummel. The hilt is of winged construction, with a blue stone set where the wings meet. The handle is red (as it is for all the swords used here). The blade rises up through a wreath which is the shaped at top like a crown, and looks like a double helix as it wraps around the sword, showing white roses on one side and a second plant on the other side.

Clouds billow around and behind and the sun shines through, glinting in rays off it. One almost expects to hear a Sousa march. This is military and represents the ability to stratagize.

*Song for Ace of Swords: Nothing Else Matters by Metallica

Fly Like An Eagle

2010-07-07T16:13:00.001-07:00

PAGE OF SWORDS

"Fly like an Eagle
Let my spirit carry me
I want to fly like an Eagle
Till I'm free."*

~ ~ ~

It didn't take me long to wish for, if not the serenity of the Peaceful Kingdom, at least the sense of joy. I could see the toll on the human spirit when living only in the realm of the intellect. It reminded me of people who would drink too much coffee during the day and by evening, they'd be squirrely, almost running around in circles. The difference was these folks honed the intensity, and savored it like a fine brandy.

Early the next morning, while many of the citizens were busy with chores, I set off to check out the lay of the land. Across a field, I saw someone running a merry chase, after nothing in particular. As I drew near, I saw it was a young woman, dashing along, sword held in both hands, the morning sun glinting off it. Her hair, long and even while clasped back, blew freely behind her. While she was the picture of satisfaction I'd seen in many of her clansmen, she was also exuding that elusive joyous quality I'd been hoping to find in anyone here.

She wore the colors of the kingdom, and her boots, like the helmet of the king and knights, had wings rising out from the rim. I had to wonder if perhaps she might actually take off of her own accord.

Who was this lithe creature? It would not take me too long to find that she was the daughter of the king and queen, and sister of the number one knight. I guess their cutting edge was a conditioning rather than innate part of their being.

[insights]

Grace, dexterity, diplomacy, intelligence (or intelligence work aka, spying), service done in secret, or secrets uncovered. Also, vision, and agility, often with an edge of danger.

*song for Page of Swords: Fly Like An Eagle by The Steve Miller Band

2010-07-06T10:52:00.000-07:00

KNIGHT OF SWORDS

"Wild boys falling far from glory,
reckless and so hungered
On the razor's edge you trail...

...Wild boys
Never lose it
Wild boys
Never chose this way
Wild Boys
Always shine"*

~ ~ ~

The Kingdom of Swords is a place of great motion and movement. It is almost frenetic. This is especially so as I watch the knights parry and practice. While there is no doubt here is a fearless warrior (The Knight of knights - the king's son) - perhaps even somewhat reckless, there is a sense of watching a superhero riding into action.

The young heir to the throne, astride a beautiful pegasus, charges ahead, his sword capturing the lightning of the storm laden skies, showing a sene of one blazing the trail to the enemy.

The clouds roil around him. What can be seen of his clothing, shows that it is akin to that of the rest of the kingdom. Like his father's, this knight's helmet shows the wings of great birds, in silver instead of black. Do we also see a likeness to Mercury, Carrying his message of war?

I had no delusions that he was where he was, not because he was the son of the Royal Family, but because of his proficiency in all things to which he put his hand; and that I would make a poor showing in the same arena. Still, I was thrust into training to become a defender of this realm.

[Insights] Here is the manifestation of devotion and passion for the student in the art of defense. Strategizing is second nature, and the intellect rules. This card is about being heroic and brave. It is about the ability to find practical solutions to a problem.

Song for Knight Of Swords: Wild Boys by Duran Duran

How To Live Life Beautifully

2010-07-05T07:29:00.000-07:00

DAILY DRAW

THEME: The World

I smile to see that my Theme from yesterday has become my Theme for this day. I see the body of the dancer, suspended in mid dance, a picture of joy, renewed and celebrting the birth of newness. The day is ahead, and I sat outside for a few moments before reading to witness the bloom of this new flower opening and spreading its wings. The dance of life is joyous and the theme for this day will be the joy of newness. Each moment will be brand new, and the opportunity to do things in a new way exists. Dance with mindfulness into each new moment.

GUIDE: Eight Of Pentacles

My gaze rests upon the apprentice, who works with great concentration, and rises up to admire all the finished pieces which he has done. I am guided to focus on each task which I do, to give it my full attention, and step back, then to admire a work well done. Seek to feel as if each moment, each task is being done for the first time, experience each moment, each movement with full awareness.

MEDITATION: The Lovers

Love is all you need, and working with another, sharing life with another is a gift and a blessing. Loving is the greatest of all blessings, and in each moment of the day, it should be done with love. Let your love flow, like a mountain stream, the words suggest. Meditate upon this most important feeling and see through the lenses of love all that is there.

SHADOW CARD: Temperance

I am reminded to temper my actions with moderation, bringing the ability to balance myself in the journey that is this day. Stand with one foot in the deep waters of the hidden mysteries, and one foot on the ground of the everyday world, allowing the energy to flow freely between both. Be mindful when juggling tasks, so that each moment can be experienced fully.

WHAT IT ALL MEANS:

Walk through the day, knowing each moment is brand new, being mindful of how I work at each task, fully experiencing the movement which goes into everything that is done, bringing the richness of love to all I do, remembering moderation allows for perfect balance, and feel the energy flow between the known universe and the unknown universe in which I live. Today is a good day to live fully, in awareness.