Sending good thoughts to Joe

          Today I'm taking this moment to put aside the card of the day. My good friend Joe, who is not only my friend, but a photographer, welder, craftsman, and my personal hero for showing me how to lead a happy life, is in the hospital.
          He is battling cancer and could use all the good thoughts you can send his way.

The Ten of Swords

Card of the Day: The Ten of Swords.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:Swords10.jpg
          Our poor trampled soul has washed up on the shores. This card is supposed to show us at a low point. We feel like we have nothing else to loose.
          I feel this is a welcome card. It may show us at our worst moment, however, it means we have turned the tide and are going to begin our assent upwards. Whatever lessons we have learned from getting to this place will be use as we move forward.
          You cannot escape the roller coaster of life. We got onto this ride the moment we were born. The best thing you can do is raise your arms up over your head on the highs and scream for all your worth on the curves. When your stomach starts getting queasy, be glad your in the front seats and not sitting behind.
           When the Ten of Swords shows up for you, best to take the time to remove the swords one by one, and begin again.

The Hanged Man

Card of The Day: The Hanged Man.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:RWS_Tarot_12_Hanged_Man.jpg
        Our friend the Hanged Man is visiting us today. He has found himself in a precarious predicament. The plans he has made have not worked out as he has laid them out. He is past anger and resentment. Now he is reflective and calm.
        We as humans are often tested. The only people who are not tested are the ones who don't do anything. If your hypothesis fails, take the time to look over your steps and make improvements. You will often find you are forgiven if you admit  your wrongs and amend your ways. Do not fear the Hanged Man. He is at peace and will soon be on his way with the knowledge and wisdom from his experiences.

The Queen of Cups

Card of The Day: The Queen of Cups.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:Cups13.jpg
           The Queen of Cups graces us with her presence today. Our kind matriarch is a welcome guest.
           She will hopefully influence us all today. Her gentle manner and genuine caring for everyone around her is infectious. She is very intuitive and a good listener. She does not get her way by using force. She will use reason and conviction to persuade her arguments.
           The Queen will often be found in the garden or walking in the forest. She is very spiritual, and finds these places a comfort. You might also find her helping others in need as well. It would not be surprising to find her in a soup kitchen or social service helping others. She is not a shrinking violet. Even in the ugliest of situations, her compassion will enable her to help those who have befallen desperate situations.
           I myself hope I can share a a cup of tea with The Queen today.

The Four of Wands

Card of The Day: The Four of Wands.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:Wands04.jpg
         Oh what a beautiful Four of Wands day! The four of wands represents celebration. Every so often we get to put aside our tasks and responsibilities to take part in merry making. The Four of Wands reminds us to cherish these moments. Don't take for granted these occasions when they occur. There are plenty of times for responsibility and tasks to strike off your to do list. Put them aside and breath in a little bit of joy and happiness. After all this is what we live for.

Eleanor Roosevelt & The High Priestess

Card of The Day: The High Priestess.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:RWS_Tarot_02_High_Priestess.jpg
        After my wife and I finished the documentary "The Roosevelt's", I found my perfect example for The High Priestess.  This is of course 'Eleanor Roosevelt'. She lived in a time when it was very hard for women to be taken seriously in politics.
       Eleanor lead through example. She showed us how to be compassionate to our fellow man. She wielded her power not through force, but through conviction. Like the High Priestess, she was calm instead of belligerent. She showed us how to be gracious in public without being precocious. Eleanor spent a great deal of time with people who were seriously injured and destitute. She wanted to give them hope and assistance. She was motivated, like The High Priestess, to leave this world a better place than when she came into it.
         I hope I can live up to the lessons of Eleanor Roosevelt-The High Priestess.
     

The Lovers

Card of The Day: The Lovers.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:RWS_Tarot_06_Lovers.jpg
         I think we all have preconceived notions of what the Lovers card is all about. Yessss_, there is the sexual aspect to it. However, there is a union part that is very strong.
         You would like to see this card come up when doing a business deal. Both parties wanting to come together to make a happy outcome for both partners.
         This card is also very forward looking. You are not out for a fling; your looking to change your life to the betterment of two, not just one.
          Always beware the high emotions that come with The Lovers Card. Who has not witnessed the hurtful words of the lovers spat. True lovers will patch things up and move ahead. We see this in business as well. Momentary obstacles and hurt feelings do not last long.
         Today, move forward together, or patch up a minor spat.

The Seven of Pentacles

Card of The Day: The Seven of Pentacles.

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Pents07.jpg
          The Seven of Pentacles makes me think about my present endeavour. My wife is editing the final pages of the book I wrote. I am sitting back waiting for the final product to bloom. Me and my friends have worked hard at getting to this place. I am taking a bit of time to reflect before picking the fruits of our labor.
          It's always good to take the opportunity to assess what you have accomplished, and where you have taken missteps. Evaluating your direction and goals can be very helpful too.
         I hope you all get to take advantage of the Seven of Pentacles over a nice cup of coffee on a sunny day. 

The Six of Cups

Card of The Day: The Six of Cups.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:Cups06.jpg
            Today the Six of Cups has presented itself for contemplation. I love the light hearted and youthful aspect of this card. I will tell the story of the Bull-roarer today as an example.
            When I was very young my grandfather made a trip to Australia. When he returned he brought some tourist mementos for all of us grandchildren. One of these toys was a Bull-roarer. This is a toy that has a feather like piece of wood attached to a string. You swing the piece of wood around by the string and it produces a very unique sound. The toy has followed me around for close to 40 years. My wife who recently became a teacher works with children all day. As much as the toy had sentimental value, I wanted to see it getting used. I gave my wife the toy for her children to play with.  Apparently it is a big hit with the children. They actually ask to play with it.
           My heart has been warmed by making some children happy with a trinket from my past. The Six of Pentacles has these values. Giving, and child like happiness. If you have the opportunity to use these values today,  please don't let them pass you by.

Two of Pentacles

Card of The Day: The Two of Pentacles.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:Pents02.jpg
           You cannot but help feeling young and agile as you view this card. Our juggler deftly handles two pentacles while dancing his jig. The figure eight symbolizing infinity surrounds the two pentacles he juggles.
          I believe this card tells us to face our day with as much enthusiasm as we can. You have an infinite wealth of energy to overcome anything that presents itself to you.  Be agile and polite as you juggle your tasks. You are in control and can accomplish much.
          I think the one word of cation for someone with this kind of energy is overconfidence and showing off. If we take our skills for granted, we can make sloppy mistakes. Keep your skills honed and your mood bright.

The Nine of Pentacles

Card of The Day: The Nine of Pentacles.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:Pents09.jpg
          The fates have chosen for us today, the Nine of Pentacles. We have all attained our positions in life by our decisions. Much like a small band of musicians, we can achieve beautiful music by working together. We take our strengths and add them to the whole. However, we must all work individually to improve our musicality. If we don't improve and grow individually, than the whole group will not grow either.
         Our lady in the Nine of Pentacles shows she has worked hard to gather her pentacles. She also enjoys the fruits of her work. This card wishes to make sure you grow and improve yourself. By improving ourselves, we help everyone prosper.
         

The Eight of Pentacles.

Card of The Day: The Eight of Pentacles.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Pents08.jpg
         I have always found Sunday to be very Eight of Pentacles kind of day. The wife and I often put things in order that have accumulated during the week. Balancing the checkbook and straitening  up the house are often done on this day.
         This card is about diligently working towards your goals. It also represents an ordered way of doing things. It's not about flights of fancy, or acting on whims. This is about getting it done.
         If you find yourself in chaos, you may want to consider putting things in order. I often feel a great deal of freedom from taking care of to do's. There is nothing that haunts your free time more than the presence of a long overdue task.
         When the Eight of Pentacles shows up, better check the 'Honey Due List'.

The Knight of Swords

Card of The Day: The Knight of Swords.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:Swords12.jpg
           When I saw the Knight of Swords come up, I immediately thought of the documentary my wife and I watched last night. We saw  "The Roosevelt's." This Tarot card reminds me of Teddy Roosevelt. He is  a man of action, as well as intelligent and ambitious. On the flip side though, he was bullish and arrogant. Teddy used his force of will to get what he wanted.
            The Knights in all the suits are powerful and strong willed. They show action and idealism. There are times when we need these attributes to succeed. Just be careful not to burn to many bridges as you advance your ideals forward.
            This card suggests that you use your strength to do what is right today, but beware of  over pressing your point.

The Six of Pentacles

Card of The Day: The Six of Pentacles.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:Pents06.jpg
         Today is a Six of Pentacles kind of day. Something about today wants us to examine the relationship with giving and receiving; with having resources or not; and judging or being judged.
         Are we being self-righteous with our charity. Are we giving because we genuinely want to help, or are we just giving to make ourselves appear holier than thou? Are we judging the people we are giving too?
         I have danced on this world for over 50 years now; and I have not seen such a swell of those in need in our own country ever. We are all going to have to come to terms with this card.
         I hope whatever aspect the Six of Pentacles is going to show you today, that you embrace them and take a hard look inwards. I believe this card is about starting the conversations with yourself and others about these hard issues.

The Tower

Card of The Day: The Tower.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:RWS_Tarot_16_Tower.jpg
           I think this is one of the least welcome cards in the Tarot deck. It's reminiscent of the 911 towers going down. It's hard to miss the shocking feelings this card shows.
           As we go through life, we are all exposed to traumatic events. These events are unavoidable. What we do have control over is how we react to them. A coward feels fear before things happen. A hero feels fear after they come to pass.
           You cannot control when bad things are going to happen. Sometimes your just at the wrong place at the wrong time. Sometimes the odds just catch up to you.
           I remember a first responder teacher once told me that firefighters walk to a crash scene, they  don't run. Calm and control, even in the face of  panic, brings order back to the situation. A quick triage helps you make decisions on what to save and what to let go. Sometimes, even in the worst of times, its good to take just a few seconds to think before you act.
          Do not fear The Tower, but be ready to be calm and accepting when it shows up.
         

King of Wands

Card of The Day: The King of Wands.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:Wands14.jpg
       The fates have chosen the King of Wands today. When we see the king of a suit we think of leadership and authority. With the intelligence and thoughtfulness of the wands suit, we have a very forward thinking example to follow.
      We are not to sit on our laurels for this card. The King of Wands would be attracted to progressive thinking and creative problem solving. This man is not a stick in the mud. He knows prosperity does not happen by chance. Hard work and an eye on the ball will see you to your goals.
       This card has plenty of energy within it. If your stuck on a problem, you may want to look at it from a different prospective to find a creative solution. You may wish to use this card to find the motivation that may be elusive at the moment.
       

Knight of Cups

Card of The Day: The knight of Cups.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Knight_of_Cups#/media/File:Cups12.jpg
           Today the Knight of Cups has presented himself. Because he is in the suit of cups, he is very emotional. His love of art and beauty knows no bounds. You could find our Knight singing heartfelt ballads late into the night. We could also find our Knight languishing in bed half the day after a long night of partying.
            We find This card can be a bit out of balance. All heart and questionable follow through can be very annoying. There can also be aspects of self absorption.
            As with all the cards, we must ask ourselves if the meaning is about aspects of our lives that we need to work on, or overcome. Do we need more emotion and poetry in our lives, or do we need to shake out the butterflies and get our nose to the grindstone. Only you know if the Knight is a welcome guest, or a friend who's overstayed his welcome.
           
           
           

The Eight of Swords

The Card of The Day: The Eight of Swords.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:Swords08.jpg
              Do you ever feel yourself trapped or backed into a corner. Perhaps you are viewing a situation that seems to have a plate full of bad options. The Eight of Swords presents us with this symbolism.
              Sometimes in life we must choose a bad course of action and live with the consequences. We cannot move forward until we take the bitter pill. You could languish for a long long time waiting around for someone else to rescue you by chance. If your waiting for the lottery to take away all your financial problems, you should be willing to wait the rest of your life and then some.
              I often find the hardest and most depressing part of a project is just before it is complete. It seems like you can never tie up all the loose ends. Others are not fulfilling their obligations. Deadlines are coming. What am I going to do? You dig deep, put in the extra effort, and prepare for a rough landing. When you emerge from the landing, you can walk away with your head held high, and a bright prospect for the future.
             When you find yourself in the company of the Eight of Swords, take a deep breath, and prepare yourself for the rough landing. If you keep a cool head and a firm grip on the wheel, you'll be alright.

Queen of Cups

Card of The Day: The Queen of Cups.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:Cups13.jpg
          Today we have drawn the Queen of Cups. We are going to look away from the material world and concentrate on the spiritual and emotional side of life. This card is like the double whammy of these traits. Both the cups suit, and the queen's , both represent these traits.
          If we are to apply this card to our lives, we want to be concerned with her values. You want to help others in need. She has a great deal of compassion for others. Her ability to feel others sufferings demands that she not put a blind eye to suffering.
          The wealth she seeks is spiritual. Her joy comes from those activities that uplift humanity. You could imagine her dancing as a free spirit in her flower garden.
          Let the Queen of Cups into your heart today. We could all use a dance in the garden.

Death

Card of The Day: Death
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:RWS_Tarot_13_Death.jpg
           The Death card is inevitable. The shadowy figure who rides the white horse rules over all. From popes to paupers we must all ride with death one day.
           I believe this card reminds us to not waste our time on earth. The Death card can also signify the end of many things, both good and bad. A project that has come to completion, or a event that's run it's course. I can remember working on many constructions projects that took all the mental and physical resources I could muster to complete. In the end the buildings looked great and the owners were happy. I welcomed the end. I was content to finish and tie up all the loose ends. By not having any unfinished business, I was able to begin the next project with renewed vigor.
          Death suggests you take care of unfinished business. Ready yourself for the next phase. Make sure your living your values. Once you have finished the project, there will be no going back. You will be judged by how you did your work.
         Look to the future and your legacy. Are you living your life as you envisioned? Death is more about the future than any other card in the deck. If you are living your life in accordance with your values, the man in black will be a welcome visitor.

The Star

Card of The Day: The Star.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:RWS_Tarot_17_Star.jpg
            Driving home late at night, you park your car and prepare to enter your home. In the dark before you enter you look skyward. There they are; millions of them, the stars. The milky way galaxy stretches from horizon to horizon.
            Who is not moved or inspired by the sight of something so wonderful. This is the spirit of The Star. All our worries and trivial annoyances fall away as we are brought into perspective by the stars.
            Allow yourself to be inspired. Our worlds can become very small at times. Sometimes it takes a quiet clear night to put our lives in perspective.

The Kind of Pentacles

Card of The Day: The Kind of Pentacles.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:Pents14.jpg
           Our King of Pentacles rules over prosperity. He values hard work and enterprise. He understands that solid community and happy workers will bring everyone the most wealth.
           Much of the kings worth is held within his domain. He will be judged by the condition of his lands and people. Because he is a good leader, he is a good example to follow. He wants to see everyone attain their highest potential. For as you grow and prosper, he prospers too.
            Use the Kings energy. Grow your potential, or someone around you.

Page of Wands

Card of The Day: Page of Wands.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:Wands11.jpg
         I like the energy of Page cards. The exuberance of youth, unencumbered by weight of responsibility. Add to this the intellectual attributes of the Wands suit, and you have a beautiful combinations.
         Move forward today with the ambition of a teenager. Use your creativity to approach problems in unique manner. The Wands aspect of the card wants you to use your mind to find solutions and not your brawn.
         The only note of caution for this card is the Page is still a youth. He lacks experience and wisdom. He makes up for these deficits with serendipity and ambition. Use his energy wisely.

The Ace of Cups

Card of The Day: The Ace of Cups.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:Cups01.jpg
          The Ace of Cups represents the essence of the cups suit. Love, joy, empathy, and compassion. Cups speaks to your spirit so to speak. These are the values that make us human.
          Today would be a good day to let your spirit influence you. Take a little extra time to speak kindly to the people in your life.
          I have noticed in my own life, as I grow older, a tendency to let minor irritations influence my mood and behavior. It is very easy to allow other drivers on the road to bring up vocabulary best left on the school playground. And I do mean allow. We have choices in how we react. You can let the Ace of Cups influence you. You can forgive and forget, or you can obsess and stew. It's your choice.
          Today I'm going to try and let my human side take control. I will drink deeply from the Ace of Cups.

The Queen of Wands

Card of The Day: The Queen of Wands.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:Wands13.jpg
              The Queen of Wands shows many different symbolic themes. Wands symbolizes intellect and growth. The sunflower implies an appreciation of nature and earth. The black cat makes  you think of mystery and things beyond the physical world.
             This woman has it all. The balance between lofty ideals, and the reality of the world she lives in. Our Queen is a mover and doer. She has sound advice and words of wisdom.
             Of the many symbols of leadership the Tarot offers, I  like this card a lot. I find the more masculine leaders are more about force and command. The females seem to use there heads and hearts to bring us to brighter futures. The kings and queens have the same ambitions. I just think the women have a gentler and kinder way of getting to their goals.
             Today, I think we want to look inward and see if we are in balance. Are we using force to get what we want? Maybe we can use reason and kindness instead.

The Five of Swords

Card of The Day: The Five of Swords.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:Swords05.jpg
            Have you ever been at the cash register checking out, and noticed the clerk make a mistake in your favor. Instead of correcting the clerk, you allow the mistake to go by. This is the Five of Swords. It's about thinking of yourself before others.
            This is not to say committing acts of intentional harm or corruption. It's more about your priorities.
            How did you feel when I talked about not correcting the mistake. Did you have that tinge of guilt when you thought about it. Now we're getting to the meat of how self destructive this can be. I know. I've done this before. It still makes me wince at the thought of it.
            I think the lesson is to make sure you don't diminish your self, as you watch out for your own self interests.
         

Six of Swords

Card of The Day: The Six of Swords.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:Swords06.jpg
          The Six of Swords is the perfect card for the new snow fall we received last night. We feel like the huddled passenger, sitting cold and tired, as we make slow passage across the channel.
          We have fought the cruel winter, and now we must suffer the late spring snow. Do not worry though. With a steady hand on the pole, our ferryman will bring us away from depression, and deliver us onto solid ground.
         There are many people we know who will help carry us away from the gloomier moments in our lives. Don't miss the boat! When someone offers you a ride away from the sucking eddy, don't hesitate. Get on board and don't look back.

Ten of Pentacles

Card of The Day: The Ten of Pentacles.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:Pents10.jpg
           Being the Pentacles suit, you already know this card must portray an aspect of wealth. That is exactly what this card does. This card shows the hard work and diligence paying off. Your money worries are over, and you comfortable interact with your friends and family.
           This is also about community and roots. Accomplishments of this magnitude are not reached in a vacuum. Your business and community ties, along with your planing and saving, have allowed you to get here. You must also take your place in the community. People will look to you for guidance and help. You have learned how succeed in the establishment. Now help spread your knowledge so that others will enjoy the same future you are.

The Chariot

Card of The Day: The Chariot.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:RWS_Tarot_07_Chariot.jpg
        A stern victor overlooks his conquests from his Chariot. You can just feel the power and authority of this man. Through his self determination and force of will, he has brought himself to victory.
        In our day to day lives this can be victory over ourselves. We may conquer a vice that has plagued us. We may have achieved a personal fitness goal. Or we may have persevered in a business deal.
       This is about personal gain and achievement. Like all victors though, we must take inventory of the consequences of winning. What have we sacrificed to gain the winning moment. Who are the people who have lost our challenge.
       I have recently seen a quote on social media that is relevant to this card. It went something like this. 'May my path forwarded be lit by the bridges I have burned'. Another good one to consider might be, 'Don't cut off your nose despite your face'. We want to make sure that our victory will be long lasting and beneficial to all. How grand is your win, if all you have won is the burnt and chard remains of the lands you have conquered.
       This card shows you have power and potential. Use it wisely.

Nine of Pentacles.

Card of The Day: The Nine of Pentacles.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:Pents09.jpg
             How confident and worldly this woman appears. She walks about her well tended garden of Pentacles. She has worked hard and diligently to have such wealth.
            Being the one who has brought her success to fruition, she lacks self doubt or worries. She has risen to the task and mastered it.
           Her robes and falcon suggest she is comfortable in her social status. She knows how to get along to get ahead.
          You will notice she is alone appreciating her accomplishments. This card is after all the suit of Pentacles . It is not about sharing abundance or lofty ideals. It's about working hard to further yourself. We all come into this world alone, we'll all go out of it alone. Being self reliant and prosperous are good things on the surface, but we must keep some balance. We also come into this world with nothing, and we go out with nothing. It is the lofty ideals and sharing that fulfills us spiritually.
         If you use the power of this card for self improvement, and becoming less reliant on others, I think you can use the card wisely. If however, you over use this card, you can loose sight of the mysterious side of life. Things that are just as important, but do not grow trees.

The High Priestess

Card of The Day: The High Priestess.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:RWS_Tarot_02_High_Priestess.jpg
             The High Priestess sits upon her thrown surrounded by the symbols of religious knowledge. She is not wed to any particular religion. She holds the secrets that are true to all of them.
             As the feminine, she does not demand you follow certain paths. You must seek her out and respectfully learn from her examples. To gain her favor you must demonstrate you wish to learn.
              You must be calm and open to truth. Force and demands have no effect upon her. Knowing the secrets of life, she is immune from the trivial attempts at deception and corruption. She knows the most precious commodities are not bought or sold.  Watch for examples of the High Priestess. She shows up in the most mysterious places.

The Ace of Pentacles.

Card of The Day: The Ace of Pentacles.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:Pents01.jpg
      Pentacles is the suit of the material world. We associate this with monetary wealth, or personal possessions. It's also about interactions with this world.
      Just because you don't have as much money or possessions,does not mean you are not wealthy. I have come across many people who are not rich, but attract many gifted and talented people to them. Their wealth of good cheer and numerous friends far exceeds those with much larger bank accounts.
      Many of the pictures that represent wealth depict people enjoying food and drink with friends in a beautiful landscapes. They are not driving fast cars on highways flaunting their money.
     Wealth is about feeling safe and sharing your abundance. If what you have does not give you joy, then you are not truly one with the Ace of Pentacles.
     This brings up the bad side of the Pentacles suit. Hoarding and vault building. Many of us have bought into the idea that the more you have, the happier you will be. Amassing money becomes a never ending activity. You don't feel safe until you have a large number of zeros behind your balance sheets. After you've amassed your fortune, you must build castles to protect your hard earned cash. It's a lonely place in the castle tower.
    If your friends and family are your resources, check your balance. If you can make a few phone calls, and an hour later, fill your house for a pot luck. You are the Ace of Pentacles.

Card of The Day. The Moon.

Card of The Day: The Moon.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:RWS_Tarot_18_Moon.jpg

       Fear, mystery, and illusion. Things that are crystal clear during the day, can transform into unrecognizable scenarios under the light of the Moon.
      In the daylight we go about our routine lives. The brightness of the light and familiar surroundings comfort to us.
      At night, the routine breaks down. Our minds entertain ideas that our daytime lives wouldn't dream of. Going for lunch  is a moment to catch up with friends and colleagues. Under the Moon, it's time to dine, and make a rendezvous with a potential lover.
      Some of us come alive at night. We revel in our released imaginations. For others, worries and doubts hidden during the daylight hours come out to haunt us.
      I think you can look at this card in several ways. One is an indication of anxiety or fear that has made it's appearance. Or it's meant to let your imagination go, and embrace the night and it's mysteries.
      What does this card hold for you?

Page of Cups

Card of The Day: Page of Cups.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:Cups11.jpg
       In the Page of Cups, we look at the aspects of the Page, and the qualities in the suit of Cups.
       The Page represents the serendipitous nature of youth. This is a time of life before we are jaded by the harsher aspects of the world. I remember back to my own youth. I was much more tolerant and forgiving. I had lofty ideals of changing the world. I took people for who they were, and didn't judge them for how they lived.
       The Cups suit represents the spiritual and mysterious side of life. Cups is not concerned with wealth or power. Cups wants to take you on a date, and experience a star gazing. Cups is laying in a hammock on a warm summers day, drinking in the warmth, and smelling the fresh cut grass.
        When the Page of Cups is your card of the day, revisit your youth. Those are the best times of our lives. Let the worries of of day to day living stay in the drawer. You didn't need wealth and possessions to be happy then. You only needed a good friend and a warm day.

The Four of Wands

Card of The Day: Four of Wands.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:Wands04.jpg
          Celebrate! The Four of Wands wants you to be excited and jubilant. I can think of many occasions the Four of Wands attends; Weddings, birthdays, carnivals, and picnics are just a few.
          I think we can have these feelings on a day to day basis too. Sometimes you just wake up the right side of the bed. Co-workers are happy and glad to be around you. Sometimes things go your way.
         When these moments happen, try not to let the news of the day dampen your spirit. As I get older I've realized there will always be bad news and tragedy around the world. Politicians we elect to represent us will not always do what we want, or be able to. War and natural disasters are just a few mouse clicks away. You don't have to look very far to find bad news.
       Good news however, you have to be open to it. There's plenty of it all around us. Unlike bad news, good news is the silent majority. It's right there in front you underlying everything.
       Don't waste the Four of Wands should you be blessed to draw it. There will be plenty of time to lament all the things that can dampen your mood. Today is not that day! Open yourself to celebrating the good fortune you have. There are many people, in much worse circumstances, that would pity us for not appreciating the good fortune we have.
      I wish you all a happy Four of Wands Day.

The Emperor

Card of The Day: The Emperor.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:RWS_Tarot_04_Emperor.jpg
          The Emperor sits on his large thrown ready to address any issue that may arise in his kingdom. It may seem like a good position to be in, however, he is not shown reveling in his wealth. In his hand is not a cup brimming with good cheer. Nor does he hold a sward to impose his judgment upon his subjects. In his hand he holds as short scepter representing his power and position.
         A lot of responsibility falls on the shoulders of the Emperor. The well being of himself and those he rules go hand in hand. Many peoples futures depend upon on his leadership.
         He also represents establishment and ritual. Emperors do not rule for short periods of time. His power comes from the longevity of time tested law and order.
         If you see yourself as this card, you may be faced with difficult decisions that effect many people. To be the Emperor is not easy. You may have to make decisions that are good for the many, but bad for your closest friends and family. Sometimes doing what is right can hurt.
        If seeing this card you feel someone else in your life is the Emperor, and your one of the masses,  you may want to interact with the respect and the customary rituals of his court. The Emperor has been around for a long time, there are ways things are done. He is not about to fly off in scattered directions of whim and fancy.
     

Card of The Day: Temperance.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:RWS_Tarot_14_Temperance.jpg

Of all the cards in the Tarot deck, this is the card I wish would influence the word. Temperance takes two undrinkable ideals and tempers them into something palatable. 

We seem to be offered either or choices today. My way or nothing. Temperance has been kidnaped, and respectful dissent is in hiding. 

We can still use the lessons of Temperance, even if the political landscape does not. 

Compromise should be associated with win win. Not win loose. 

If you have poured water from one glass to another, it takes a steady hand. Temperance is a wise and experienced hand at working with volatile ideals. In our day to day lives, it is always good to find someone who is steady and clear headed to do the mixing. If we choose inexperienced or biased hands, there can be disastrous consequences. 

Before you try to mixing ideals; make sure your hands are steady, and your heart is unbiased.   

Card of The Day: The Queen of Cups. 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:Cups13.jpg

Because Cups represent emotions and spirituality, and The Queen represents the feminine point of view, we have a very special individual before us. She is moved by the emotions of those around her. She cares about how and what your doing. 

You would wish her to be the doctor or nurse who gives you compassionate care. Being the Queen, she will do what needs to be done. She can be compassionate without letting her emotions cloud her judgement. If what you need is vaccine, she’ll jab you with the needle knowing it’s the right thing to do. 

We all have unpleasant responsibilities and points of view we have to convey to others around us. Wouldn’t it be nice if those tasks could be done with the energy of The Queen of Cups. 

Five of Pentacles

Card of The Day: Five of Pentacles.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:Pents05.jpg
          How do you feel when you see The Five of Pentacles? Do you relate to the two poor and desperate people in the picture? Are you one of the people who feel for these two souls, and wish to help them? Lastly do you feel these people, through their own bad choices, deserve the fate they are left to?
         This card represents hardship brought on through financial hardship, or health problems laying us low.
         The issue for me with this card, is an overwhelming compulsion to judge the people in the picture. You're all well aware of our society's conflict with the poor and disabled, not to mention race, gay, lesbian, and income inequality. In all these cases there are strong emotions tied to the symbolism they represent.
         The Five of Pentacles suggests you take a long hard look at your feelings on these issues. I myself have lived in both the worlds of poverty and affluence. I will not pontificate on how you should view these issues. I only suggest you try and think what it's like to be someone who is judged harshly by society. At some point we will all be old and in need of help, whether we be rich or poor.

Card of The Day: Three of Swords.

Card of The Day: The Three of Swords.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:Swords03.jpg
     The Three of Swords, to me, is the card I fear the most. To inflict the kind of pain this card shows you have to be very close to someone.
      We could also be the perpetrators of such pain as well. I think we have all done some pretty awful things to people from time to time. I have two sisters, and there are several things from my childhood that I would dearly love to take back.
      I'm afraid betrayal and emotional pain is part of life. I believe the key to this card is to not let it overshadow you. Better to have loved and loss, than to never had loved at all. Be resilient and forgiving. I know I need forgiveness now and again. With this in mind, I will try and forgive other people in hopes that they will forgive me for my faults.
      Although I didn't make the old saying, it still holds true, 'do unto others as you would have them do unto you'.

Card of The Day: The World.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:RWS_Tarot_21_World.jpg

This is the card we strive for. The World represents the contentment that comes with achieving balance in our lives. Your wants and needs are manageable. You have purpose and meaningful direction in your life. Friends and family share happy and cordial gatherings.
When we pass through moments like these, make sure to to relish them. Like the river, we are always in constant flow. Once we are through the rapids, take time to appreciate the peaceful stretches before the rapids begin again.
For myself, I have never found the feelings from 'The World' card by being protected and safe. I cannot build a fortress strong enough to protect myself from all the bad things that might happen to me. The thicker and higher I build my walls, the father out of touch I become. The more I reach out to keep my world fresh and engaged, the more happness I feel.
I think shared experiences are the jewels of life. These are the treasures I attain from 'The World'.

Card of The Day: The Fool.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:RWS_Tarot_00_Fool.jpg
         The Fool is the first card in the major arcana. He is heading out on a fresh start to enlightenment.   He represents innocence and wanderlust. The Fool is unencumbered by prejudice, intolerance, or hate. His beauty is being un-jaded by experience. He wants for little except to drink in experience and the richness of the beauty around him.
       His folly is he does not have a wealth of wisdom that may protect him from going on the wrong paths.
       This is the conflict we face in life. Do we allow ourselves to go off into the world seeking beauty and knowledge? Or Is it more important to shield ourselves from all that may be out there to harm us.
       When you see The Fool card show up, it wants you to come back to the side of innocence. It's time to start a new journey and search for knowledge. Leave your fears and listen to your heart. The Fool knows there is beauty out there and he is willing to take the risk to search it out.

Card of The Day: The Four of Cups.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:Cups04.jpg

I find myself afflicted with this card on a regular basis. In the Four of Cups, a young man sits under a tree in self absorbed contemplation. The three cups he posses don’t seem to satisfy him. A hand from the sky is offering him yet another, but he is to preoccupied to see the offering. 

What is it about the human condition that we spend so much time worrying about things that don’t matter? Everyone of us have had the good feelings that come from giving to others, receiving hospitality, or going for a good walk. Yet we all to often fall into old patterns that keep us in the doldrums. 

If you can relate to this card, I think the answers are fairly self evident. Grab some boot strap leather, pick your self up, and get moving. Your mind will fallow your feet’s lead and come around. You don’t have to be in the mood to do something. Just do it and the mood will come all by it’s own.

Card of The Day: King of Wands.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:Wands14.jpg

     I like this king a lot. The kings of the suits represent the attributes of the suit, plus the personality of a leader. Wands are thinking and creative, and these are just the kind of virtues that we want in a great leader. 

     We want our king to listen to the young and the old alike, and not be stuck in antiquated ways of doing things. When the time has come to act we want our king to boldly bring us to a better future.

      Seeing this card makes me admire and want to add the King of Wands energy to my day. I want to take actions that would please this man. 

      I wish there were more high profile role models that live up to this card. If like me you have trouble finding a good role model, the next best thing is to be the role model. Take the initiative and lead by example.

Card of The Day: Four of Swords.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:Swords04.jpg
       The four of Swords displays a man in somber sleep surrounded by four swords. His hands are held as in prayer. A stained glass window in the background shows he is in a place of sanctuary.
       This card is telling us to take a break from our battles and difficulties. Often in modern society, we have a great deal of difficulty slowing down, or stopping when we need to heal.
        Sometimes we just need some peaceful place to contemplate the path we are on. The Four of Swords reminds us to take some personal time to think.
        This card can also signify the healing process. You cannot knit your broken bones or allow your medicine to work if you're pushing too hard. In my profession 'carpenter' I cannot count the number of times I've had to work through the pain of swollen joints and aching back. I could have used the advice of this card many times.
       I hope that all of you who need this card, use its advice and take a break.

Card of The Day: Six of Pentacles.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:Pents06.jpg

        I believe we see a lot of this card in our daily lives. In the Six of Pentacles, a man of wealth is giving money to a beggar kneeling beside him. Another beggar awaits a possible contribution. The wealthy man also holds a scale to measure the worth of those who are asking him for money. 

        This card shows the complex relationship of need, want, charity, power and control. 

        No one is judging the man giving out the money or his authority to judge the men asking for charity. The patron is hardly giving to the point where he is diminishing his wealth. The pittance he is giving the beggars is hardly enough to bring them up out of poverty. 

        When you see this card, ask yourself what your relationship to charity is. Are you in need of help from a benefactor? Will you have to sacrifice some dignity asking for assistance? Are you in a position to give charity? Are you using your helpfulness as true giving, or power and influence over those receiving your money. 

       Who has not heard water cooler talk of the distain for street beggars, welfare recipients, and asylum seekers. It is so easy to judge these people. It is so hard to be these people. 

       When you decide to give, think very carefully about what your doing, and why your doing it. The world may very well depend on your relationship with this card.

Card of The Day: The Hierophat.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:RWS_Tarot_05_Hierophant.jpg
         I myself have a bit of difficulty with this Card. The picture shows a religious leader giving guidance to disciples. Or another way to look at it is, the head of an organization leading its members.
         This card represents the orderly establishment being run with a hierarchical structure. As we know there is power in numbers. The more orderly and well run the establishment the more influence the organization can wield. People who play by the rules and interact within social boundaries will do well.
         Of course if you are not one of the people who does well in groups, or blindly fallowed the orders from above, things can get a little rough.
          I myself, like all of us, have been on both sides of the coin. Sometimes I have fit in. Sometimes I do not. I've had to be the leader doling out orders, and I've had to be the good soldier following orders too.
          This card brings up a lot if issues for me. There are many well run organizations with kind and gracious Hierophants leading the flock. There are also many victims of poorly run, powerful groups who use their selfish ideals against anyone not belonging to their group.
          Choose your organizations wisely. If your team or group works together with a good leader you can achieve beyond your individual abilities. On the other hand if your organization is not founded on moral footings, and your leaders are not worthy of your loyalties, you may want to find a better Hierophat to lead you.
         The most important of all, is if your the leader of a team of individuals, please be kind and generous. You have an obligation to those that work or learn from you.

Card of The Day: The Sun.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:RWS_Tarot_19_Sun.jpg
           Remember those warm summer days when you wake up and everything is right with the world. Everything is illuminated, and your fears and worries have been swept away with the warmth and light. This is what The Sun card is exemplifying.
           You may also find the feelings of achievement and recognition for a job well done. If your going to get a gold star this is the day.
           I wish for all of you to relish your moment in The Sun today. I think we can all feel the summer days are just around the corner.

Card of The Day: Strength.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:RWS_Tarot_08_Strength.jpg
     This is one of my favorite cards.  I think this card eloquently shows the true power of strength. All to often people confuse power with strength. Gandhi, Martin Luther King JR, and Malala Yousafzai, all show the kind of strength this card depicts.  It is the strength of the intellect over our more base emotions.
       The woman fearlessly conquers the lion with her kindness and knowledge. Oh how we need more of this woman! I find all to often these days, people using power and anger to force and intimidate their will upon us. I will try and stay out of politics here, but I'll let your imagination wonder to the headlines we so often see depicting this kind of abuse of power.
      So please use your Strength as your tool of persuasion. Power has limits, Strength does not.

Card of The Day: Ten of Swords.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:Swords10.jpg
No one wants to see The Ten of Swords show up for them. The poor man lies face down with ten protruding swords. A low point for sure.
      How did he find himself at such a low point? Perhaps he has reaped the benefits of decisions he has made in the past. Maybe he's chosen the role of martyr, using himself for the benefit of some one else. I hope that he realizes how much he's sacrificed. And I hope it was worth it to him.
     No matter how this poor man found his way to this point, there is no lower he can go. It is time to painfully pull out the swords and begin to heal. A change of direction is upon him. It may not be easy but he's got nothing to loose.
     If you find that you empathize with The Ten of Swords, look for a new beginning. You have done your sacrificing, now it's time to pick yourself up by the boot straps and start again.

Card of The Day: The Empress.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:RWS_Tarot_03_Empress.jpg
         The Empress is much like mother earth. She is grounded and life springs from her. She wants you to know that the true wealth is the wealth from the earth. Good fresh food, clean water, and the beauty of the land is what she values.
          Are you caught up in the technological world. Does money and the trinkets of capitalism surround you. Nature is calling. You are her children. We often stray from The Empress but she calls to us to come home. It's time to share a good meal with friends and family. Let The Empress sit at your table and share her bounty.

Card of The Day: Queen of Pentacles.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#mediaviewer/File:Pents13.jpg

The Queen of Pentacles represents all the attributes you cherish in a good friend. Warm, inviting, honest, and hard working. I picture a person like Ruth Gordon from the movie Harold and Maude. Ruth was very practical, but honest to a fault. Her love of the natural world and beauty was inspiring.

The Queen does not preach her philosophy. She takes you as you are. This card asks you to examine yourself, and compare your values and actions. If you’re not living up to the Queen’s example you may want to make changes.

Card of the Day: The Hanged man.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#mediaviewer/File:RWS_Tarot_12_Hanged_Man.jpg

           A very disturbing yet peaceful card. The man has committed some crime, but he is at peace with his predicament. Has he made a sacrifice that will allow the success of his ideals? 

            The man is not in pearl for his life, but he must contemplate how he got here. It is moments like this we test ourselves. Sometimes we must forfeit a chess piece to win the match. We will wait and show patience after the loss. The test will come at the end of the game to see if we have sacrificed wisely. 

           

Card of The Day: The Five of Wands:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#mediaviewer/File:Wands05.jpg

         At times do you feel at odds with every one and everything. Does the stream of daily activity seem hard to swim against today. We all have times which are not traumatic, but irritating and difficult. All of a sudden your teammates have turned from a well oiled machine into a group of individualists looking after their own self interest's. We watch our politicians going through these difficulties every day. With the weight of this card upon us it is difficult to make progress. If we persevere, and don't allow ourselves to become petty and demoralized, we will weather the lows and be ready to enjoy the highs. 

Card of The Day: Six of Cups.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:Cups06.jpg
Six cups, brimming with flowers, are portrayed in this picture along with two people exchanging a gift between them. I cannot determine if it's the youth giving the flowers to the elderly woman or the other way around. I think the important thing is the exchanging of the gift, not who is receiving it. Both people in the picture look happy at the exchange. There in lies the lesson in the card. Charity and kindness. I believe that the act of kindness makes the giver more happy than the receiver. Here is the real test though, are you giving out of genuine kindness or are you awarding because you deem the recipient worthy. I think this card tells us to give out of kindness and not to judge the recipient. This is about true giving and true kindness.

Card of The Day: The Devil.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:RWS_Tarot_15_Devil.jpg
Who is not moved by this symbolic card. I feel that that we are all given challenges that we must overcome throughout life. The two naked figures who wear the chains at the Devils feet are there voluntarily. You'll notice the chains are not bound tight. If they choose they can free themselves from him. The Devil represents our worldly gluttonous desires. Money, food, drugs, alcohol, smoking, sex, and many other worldly pleasures, that taken to extreme, bind us to him. We allow ourselves to be blinded by our desires. We use ignorance as a shield to prevent us from leaving his sanctum. I do not know of any person who does not battle against inner desires on a daily basis. Horns have growing out of my refridgorator for years, and I can almost see a Devils tale dangling form a bacon cheese burger. But life is not rewarding without the Devil to test us. The feeling I get from passing over a donut or french fries if fantastic. I will also admit that I have spent a long time in the Devils lair not able to bring myself to remove the chains. Do not fear the Devil, he is you. When you gain control over yourself, you conquer him!

Card of The Day: Eight of Cups.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#mediaviewer/File:Cups08.jpg
We have visited the Eight of Cups before. This is the beauty of the Tarot cards. Each time you look at the cards, the meanings strike you differently. This is why the concepts the cards represent are not static. We apply them to the ebb and flow of our lives.
         Today's look at the Eight of Cups shows a man leaving the cups he as acquired over his life time behind. The the superficial items he chose to collect within these vessels no longer satisfies. His tastes have changed. He leaves these cups behind for those who still value these things. He begins a new search for more meaningful ideals to fill his cups. I think as we age and hopefully become more wise, our values change. Some become more hardened and jaded. Some become more open and tolerant. I find myself pulled in these two directions almost daily. We are accosted continuously to be more fearful and condemning of others. I fight to keep myself open and tolerant. I fear most becoming dark and lonely.
       Perhaps this man is leaving behind the hate, greed, and gluttony he has acquired, and gone off to search for his childhood. The times before we knew of prejudice and want. A time before self consciousness.

Card of The Day: The Two of Swords.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:Swords02.jpg

The blindfolded woman sits on the shore guarding herself with two swards. She refuses to see the realities of the world around her. Anyone trying to reveal the truth, by removing the blindfold, will be blindly lashed at. She will strike at a friend or foe, for she can recognize neither in her blindness. Are you shutting off the world? Do you lash out at friends and family without rhyme or reason? If you find yourself avoiding painful situations, you may be experiencing the Two of Swords. Do not do harm to the bearer of bad news. They are just trying to help you. I believe this card is telling us to let down our guard and remove our blinders. With the blindfold you shield yourself from reality but you also deprive yourself of warmth and kindness from the ones who love you.

Card of The Day: The Moon.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:RWS_Tarot_18_Moon.jpg
The Moon is a very mysterious card. In the daytime the sun reveals all. The creatures of the night sleep. Your troubles seem to melt away. In the nighttime, when the Moon rules the heavens, is a different situation. This is when the dark awakens the slumbering animals who come out to feast on the nighttime bounty. Our fears and worries rise from their hiding places in our subconscious. We rely on our sight all day. At night we must rely much more heavily on our remaining senses. In the absence of light our imaginations take the place of our sight.  The moon can be a source of anxiety for many.  For some of us however, we revel in the night. Who has walked alone in the moonlight along a wooded path. The silence is so beautiful. The hectic life of the day is replaced with peace and calm. How rejuvenating the night can be if we don't allow our fears to blind us from the beauty of the moon.  Conquer your fears, join in the celebration of the night, and the rising of the moon.

Card of The Day: The Hermit.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#mediaviewer/File:RWS_Tarot_09_Hermit.jpg

How many times have I wanted to be this card?  Here a man seeks solitude from the hectic life of modern society.  Wisdom, knowledge, and enlightenment are what he searches for.  It is so tiring to live in the stream of self interest that assaults from our electronic world. The Hermit turns away from this and finds places of peace to search for true meaning. He must find it for himself because anyone proclaiming they know the truth or the path to enlightenment, knows neither. If you are fortunate enough to meet The Hermit in your travels, learn what you can from him. He has learned much already, and you could be well advised to take knowledge of his teachings.

Card of The Day: Seven of Pentacles.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:Pents07.jpg

With the Seven of Pentacles, we see a man pondering his bounty ripening on the vine. He is literally watching the seeds of his decisions blossom before his eyes. Did he plant the right crop? Is the climate appropriate for the plants he grew. Now is the time to asses and think of the future. Take a look at the decisions you made earlier and see how they have grown over time. This card speaks volumes to me. I am closing in on finishing the book I started over a year ago. How will this adventure end. Will the words I wrote on the page be well received by those who choose to read it? For now I wait and ponder, trying to make my wishes come true.

Card of The Day: Ten of Cups.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#mediaviewer/File:Cups10.jpg

What a wonderful card! Things are coming up roses. The sun is shining, and you feel content with the world. It's also an indication to try and get closer to your family and friends. They are, after all the ones who have been there for you when the chips were down. The cycle of ups and downs moves with us like the tide. For this moment though, take a deep breath from the top of the wave. Don't forget to put your good memories in a safe place so you can use them when your in the shallows.

Card of The Day: The knight of Swords.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#mediaviewer/File:Swords12.jpg

The Knight of Swords makes his second appearance on the card of the day. Do we need the knight's motivation today? Is there some obstacle that needs decisive action? I envision the knight like so many TV heroes. While they bravely fight the good fight, there is little thought given to the carnage that is left behind by the violent vanquishing of the villain. Check to make sure your using good judgment before you act. Self-righteousness is the pitfall of the knight. Make sure the villain is the only one to be vanquished, and not the innocent bystander. The Knight of Swords likes things black and white, good and bad. He is not one for the greys. Unfortunately life rarely gives us such an easy choice. When the time comes to act though, the knight is the card you want in your hand.

Card of The Day: Justice.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:RWS_Tarot_11_Justice.jpg

Justice is an emotionally formidable card. Who has not stood in fear wondering how our karma reserves will we weighed against our deeds. Justice tells us to act judiciously. Pay your debts. Collect what is due you. Be fair beyond your prejudice. Sometimes we must take a moment to consider the choices we are making. Are we doing what is right despite our desire for self interest? Fair is not always as easy to do, as it is to say. Justice is a very important card to keep close to you at all times. If we always take a moment to consider the outcomes of our actions, we may make much wiser decisions.

Card of The Day: Eight of Wands.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:Wands08.jpg

The Eight of Wands signifies forward motion. Plans and strategies you have made are now put into action. This card is not about the thinking and dreaming, or pondering of things that have passed. We are putting one foot in front of the other doing what we need to do to accomplish our goals. Keep your nose to the grindstone, your hands on the wheel, and your concentration sharp as a tack.

Card of the Day: Queen of Cups.

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:Cups13.jpg

The Queen of Cups would make a fine example for teachers or care givers of any kind. She is compassionate, kind, and willing to listen. The ugliness of the world around offends her senses. She seeks to aid all who are less fortunate or afflicted by life's difficulties. Learn from her lessons and think of others. Good Karma fallows this graceful monarch.

Card of the Day: Ace of Cups.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#mediaviewer/File:Cups01.jpg

Emotions, feelings, and intuition. These are the pinnacle of the cups suit, and the foundation of the Ace. The Ace is the vessel that holds what we cannot grasp in our hands. Use the best of what your mind offers you today;  peace, love, and spirituality. This is not a card of material wealth or cutting action. Get close to your family. Play a game with your kids. Do what makes you happy and joyful. We've had a long winter, and its time to use this warm day to breath some refreshing air.

Card of The Day: Wands.

Usually I pick a single card to think on for the day. Today however I'm going to discuss the suit of wands. As I prattled through the deck, many cards from the suit of wands showed up. It seemed only fitting to talk about the suit as a whole. Wands, sometimes called staffs, possesses themes that weave through the entire suit. Some of these themes are intelligence, ingenuity, and truthfulness.  When we look at the cards in the suit, the wands are not staffs like Gandolff would use. Nor are they like magical wands Harry Potter would have. Wands are more alive than that. You will often see leaves protruding from the wands of the Tarot deck. I can envision a man coming to the top of a mountain, and lean in deep thought upon his trusted staff cut from the living trees around him. Wands can be used in a defensive manner but not as a weapon like in the suit of swords. Traveling and journeys can be associated with this suit as well. Use the thoughtful tools that come from Wands and you can't go wrong.

Card of the Day: The Lovers.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#mediaviewer/File:RWS_Tarot_06_Lovers.jpg

The Lovers card has some rather self-evident meaning. I will not bore you with possible uses of the face value of the card. Lets just say, it's cold and snowing out there. There are some more subliminal aspects to this card that are very powerful. Pairing and partnering. Truthfulness. Doing what's right. The Lovers card is very honest. You don't enter into a partnership lightly, but the benefits can be substantial if you choose your partner wisely. Bet true to your beliefs. Don't take this card lightly.

Card of The Day: Page of Swords:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#mediaviewer/File:Swords11.jpg

Ah Youth. Our young page is strong and enthusiastic. He wishes to confront the wrongs in the world. He is up for the challenge of doing what is right. The tasks at hand may not be desirable but with fortitude and conviction you will persevere. The page loves intellect and learning. Use your mind not your brawn to achieve your goals, and overcome your obstacles.

Card of the Day: Two of Cups.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#mediaviewer/File:Cups02.jpg


The Two of Cups is very reminiscent of the Lovers card. However, this card puts enphasis on joining, and working together. Lets put our cups together and become more than the individual parts. We will have to shed some of our individualism to form a union. This card asks us to work cooperatively. This does not have to mean just for a man and a woman. Business dealings, neighbor helping neighbor, and many other collaborative endeavors can benefit from this card. Work together and build something beautiful.

Card of the Day: Eight of Cups.

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rider-Waite_tarot_deck#/media/File:Cups08.jpg

The Eight of Cups would be a good soul searching card. The man is leaving behind the old and searching out a new path. It could be any number of quests. Career, spiritual, meaning. As we go through life we come to many end points that need to be tidied up before we move on. Put to rest what needs to be finished and then begin with the new.

Card of the Day: Ten of Wands.

Now this is the card for all you storm worn New Englanders. The card shows a man carrying a heavy load of ten staffs. His arms are so full he has a hard time seeing where he is going. This card shows us our trudging with our burdens despite the difficulty. The snow keeps on piling up, but we continue to shovel. We know what needs to be done and we do it. Stay true to your task. Soon the weather will break and spring will be here. For the moment though, just keep on shoveling.

Here is a link to a picture of the Ten of Wands. http://www.learntarot.com/bigjpgs/wands10.jpg

Card of the day returns after day job: Five of Swords. 

Ah the Five of Swards, a very inward looking card indeed. This is the card of self interests. We tire of thinking of others and just want to do things for ourselves. We forsake shoveling out our neighbors mailbox. Who really cares if I throw my driveway snow into someone else's yard. Oh well only enough coffee left for me.  I want the biggest piece of cake. We all resist these tendency's, but this card shows us having to struggle very hard to not let our impulses get the upper hand. Beware the Five of Swords. 

Card of the Day: Knight of Swords.

The knight of Swords, or the annoying hero. Here is the man of action. He is just and swift in his pursuit of what is right. However the innocent bystanders that are accidentally in his way may suffer.  His words are to the point and unfiltered. Lacking good manners or political correctness could discourage his followers. Are you doing what is right today? Do you need the Knights virtues to keep you on the right path? Are you proceeding in the right direction but unthoughtful to those around you? The Knight of Swords should make you think. Be cautious, this is a powerful card and should be used wisely.

Card of the day: The Wheel of Fortune.

Motion; do you feel things speeding up? Unforeseen events that are totally unexpected sometimes happen. There is an energy in this card. This card tells us to be ready to take action on surprise events. Be forewarned though, once the Wheel is in motion it does not stop until it's ready. Don't be caught in front of it to be run over by chance. Be quick and agile when The Wheel turning.

Card of the day: Nine of Swords.

The Nine of Swords is a perfect card for the middle of winter. This card shows a person sitting up in bed with their head in hands. They have awoken in the middle of the night plagued by worry. How many of us do not suffer from the lack of sunlight and activity in the cold winter months. Doubts and anxiety seem to find a way to creep into our thoughts. Where are we going to put all that snow? We need to get the taxes done! Is the car going to start?  Knowledge is power though. Knowing that we are all going through the same experiences at this moment can give us some comfort. I find getting out and seeing live performances is a great way to shed the feelings of the Nine of Swords. Being around living people helps bring some life back into our souls.  Don't let this card get the better of you. Get out there and have some fun and see some friends.

Card of the Day: Ace of Cups.

Cups is the suit of emotions and feelings. The Ace is the pinnacle of the suit. This card wants you to be aware of your emotional side and use your feelings to guide you. This is a great card for Valentine's day. It's a time to show loved ones how much they mean to you.  Don't worry too much about the material world. It will always be there, but a good cup of coffee, shared with the love of your life, will fill your inner cup like nothing else.

Card of the day: The Magician:

This is the favorite card for many people.  A robed figure holds a short wand above his head. Before him is a table with the four suits of the Tarot upon it. A sword, pentacle, cup, and wand. He has the power to balance these symbols and transfer their energy into forward momentum. Not everyone has the ability to harness such power. The sword of action, the cup of emotions, the wand of thought, and the pentacle of materialism.  Any one of these symbols that becomes out of balance with the others can do harm. Use good judgement moving yourself forward. Keep in balance.

Card of the day: Four of Pentacles.

The four of pentacles is all about control and miserly intentions. We want to keep things as they are. Change is not a friendly term for this card. This card wants to circle the wagons and protect the precious resources. There are two ways to apply this card. If things in your life are out of controll, you may need to take steps to find firmer ground. If you're being a stick in the mud, you may need to pull yourself out and let the waters carry you down stream. No one can hold back the river.

Card of the day: Nine Of Cups.

The nine of cups shows a rather plump man sitting happily before 9 golden cups. This is a man who has plenty and is happy for it. All things are going his way. He is content with his position. There is of course a caution one must heed with good fortune. Do not be smug or ostentatious. Don't let your good fortunes overshadow those around you. Enjoy life, savor your moment, but never forget how hard you worked to get there.

Card of the Day Temperance:

I believe this to be one of the more self-explanatory cards. It represents the ability to blend wants and needs. Making compromises with calm and compassion. I think in many ways, we all want to be Temperance. People we see with this ability are often leaders, persons able to take the passioned views of all around them and make a palatable solution.

Card of the Day: Knight of Cups.

Disclaimer! I do not proclaim that these cards in any way tell the future, or magically tell you things to make decisions based on. These are purely for entertainment and intellectual food for thought.

The Knight of Cups. A very interesting man. He is a lover of the arts and lofty goals. He follows his heart and emotions. But emotions can run away with you as well. The moody broody's need to be kept at bay. You don't want walk around barefoot and fancy free,  just to step on a sharp LEGO block.

Here is a link to a picture of the knight. picture of Knight of Cups



Dear Anonymous: I want to thank you for your gentle and appropriate corrections to my article. I should be careful calling myself a writer. I should say I'm a storyteller working on becoming a writer. This is a good example of how I must become more diligent on editing my own work. I am blessed with a wife who is much more adept with the English language than I am. She, however does not edit my online posts. I will try and make good use of your advice, and step my game up.  Thank you again for bringing these mistakes to my attention in a compassionate way. 

Card of the Day: The Seven of Cups:

Disclaimer! I do not proclaim that these cards in any way tell the future, or magically tell you things to make decisions based on. These are purely for entertainment and intellectual food for thought.

Today I pulled the Seven of Cups. This is a link to the card from a search I did on the Internet.

 https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbhRzh-a2NT7118DAE-hfolpL9hR_2wMMbIb6gV-Bt3YwOen-gD_zynqURjzaN9FKw2zsGHP2hHWbm6g0MVd6O5xyF0FW0XXGGL8hyqZQuWBiFGwxpq8OhwXpQMjflJYMYQP9P_T2vIMTz/s640/7cups.jpg

The man is pondering 7 chalices containing many fanciful objects. He is daydreaming about all the possible and wonderful things that he might do or want.
While dreaming and letting your imagination out for a run is good, you may also want to make sure your imagination is not getting the upper hand. Are you in a momentary fantasy, or are you being lazy and not doing what needs to be done? If your feet are well grounded, a bit of dreaming is good. If you're avoiding what needs to be done by taking a trip to La La land, you may want to rethink this.

Card of the day January 31st 2015

Disclaimer! I do not proclaim that these cards in any way tell the future, or magically tell you things to make decisions based on. These are purely for entertainment and intellectual food for thought.

Today's card is, The Knight of Pentacles.  The good aspects of the card are dogged persistence, following through with your endeavours, and being cautious.

On the negative side, missing opportunities because you fear risk, are being stubborn, unyielding, and grouchy.

No matter what card is picked for the day, my mind will always seek to find ways to assimilate the meaning into my life at the moment. I find it always makes me reframe my thinking, much like an inspirational quote adds to your day.

I hope you find this entertaining.

                             What it means to me to become a writer

      I do not consider myself a writer yet. I have not published anything. However, I  hope to soon. I think I'll feel like a writer when I can wear leather shoes and cool hats. This, of course needs a little bit of explanation.
        What I have admired about creative people is their ability to wear what they want, and not to worry about what other people think.  They often wear cool hats and colorful clothing. They also wear real leather shoes.
         Because of my vocation, I must wear rugged and durable footwear. It must be practical and rather bland. A nice leather shoe is good for walking about and generally looking cool. Sneakers and work boots are very practical, however the cool factor is well below the bar.
          I wear ball caps. They protect my eyes and head from sun and dust. I have a whole collection of grungy ball caps. Wouldn't it be nice to wear a cool hat that is just plain nice to look at?
         The greatest thing about these items of clothing is that you have to be brave to wear them. Nice shoes and cool hats say hey; I have pizazz! I have the strength to wear something nice. If you don't like my hat and shoes..., well whatever! I like my hat and shoes! That's all that matters.
        When I'm brave enough to wear cool stuff, I think I can call myself a writer.