Six of Wands - Power & Recognition

Everyone needs a strong sense of personal power that comes from recognition, being a basic human need. Some constantly crave attention, never being able to get enough to fill what seems like a bottomless pit. Other folks are not comfortable at all with any recognition, are self-deprecating to the point of having very little self-worth or confidence. I have seen this many times working with troubled youth for many years. Adults need to impart basic needs to children in order for them to grow into people who have a real sense of personal power.

We all want our fifteen minutes of fame, it is often stated. Regardless, the fact is, it makes little difference to our self-confidence if we are not our own biggest fan, believe in our own abilities, and our capacity to be creative, talented or accomplished, in what ever way.

In the Six of Wands we see Jason who has finally retrieved the Golden Fleece and he is being praised for having fought, and triumphed over the Dragon, which he met head on, including all of the other challenges, and obstacles he faced before finally capturing the Golden Fleece.

His journey is not over however, and there are still new challenges to face.
Jason received great public acclaim for his accomplishment, however he needs to continue to maintain his conviction to be all he can be, to have courage and faith in himself, intuition and an inner spiritual vision.

We can get carried away with public recognition, or our desire for it. Ego can get the best of us with the heady moments and intoxication of praise, acclaim, and much collective validation for efforts made. Public affirmation presents it's own dilemma.
As well, we may experience having to deal with the competitiveness, and envy of others, including our family and friends.


Success is measured in many different ways, depending on how it is defined. Though recognition feels like success, and in some ways it is. It can be a wonderful feeling, because one feels validated, and can give us a sense of belonging.
Ultimately true success, and validation comes from within, and we all have to find the courage to find our own personal power.

Circle of Courage - George Blue Bird - Lakota Artist

Ace of Wands - Creative Vision & Imagination

Well this it the card for me today. Here he is, Zeus, the King of the Gods, with the Golden Fleece over his shoulder, and his great big wand! Wands are the suit of action and energy, signifying growth. He embodies the symbol of creative vision, and the power of the imagination within us, which sometimes, we just can't quite seem to grasp. I have learned that I must trust that creative power, and take risks with new ideas, and embark upon the great journey into the world of creative vision and imagination.

Only one problem, motivation is a factor when it comes to " gettin' at it and to it ". That's me today. Letting other issues get in the way, and just plain procrastination. All creatives struggle with this periodically.
The more you talk about it the less you do, this is what can happen. Zeus he may be the King of Wands, embodying creative vision and imagination but sometimes I feel like the Queen of procrastination embodying coffee, sloth and loathing!

I have a whole new project start. So I'd better shut up and get to it, and at it, " so the day does not go down in debt. " as Leonard Cohen said.

The Wheel of Fortune - Hubris & Humility

Oh I had a feeling, and was hoping for a "good" card today. This is it I thought, The Wheel of Fortune! I haven't drawn this before for myself. I was excited or maybe I just had too much coffee!
A Major Arcana card, cause and effect, along with Karma are the operative words. Reaping what we sow, bla, bla, bla. Sorry, I know I sound jaded, and cynical but please hear me out.

Unknowingly until now, I've been thinking about all this meaning, present in the Wheel of Fortune, really, since yesterday, and today. Perhaps because I've been doing some readings for folks lately, that have caused me to contemplate my own life, but I do this a lot, in one way or another, because I am involved with reading the cards everyday, but I've always been introspective. I got that contemplating my navel thing, down pretty good!

The Wheel of Fortune's meanings makes me think, yes I agree, we do reap what we sow. But what about those of us who seem to frequently get more of our share of suffering, and difficulty? It is hard to make sense of it all. We can feel even like, there has got to be some kind of person responsible for this, and when it all goes bad, we want to lash out in anger, and find someone or something to blame, because it is unjust, unfair and even cruel. When it goes well, sometimes we forget to be grateful, to really appreciate what we do have.

I think it's important to acknowledge the unfairness, and the unjustness of life, and allow ourselves to be angry. Anger is a feeling and I think it is more productive to simply feel and accept our anger in order to let it go, so we don't live in the problem and allow resentment to enslave us, our attitude toward life, and the universe. But it is just as important to see and exemplify fairness, justice, kindness and mercy in the world.

Life certainly is not all flowers and roses. We don't want or need to hear a bunch a platitudes and psychobabble we find condescending, and that minimizes what we are going through. Usually, when we are  experience hard times, we just need someone to hear us, and listen, we don't want advice or and philosophical gobbleygoop. My spell check won't even accept that word! 

 I heard a program today on the radio about aging. This older gentleman called up, and said he uses a slogan often to help himself wade through the messes of life. " Now Here This ". This isn't a spelling mistake,  here refers to the here and now. He compared the past and future as being swamps, that we get stuck in, and can create more unhappiness than what we are already experiencing. What this wise man in his eighties said, gave me serious reflection.

There are definitely laws of nature we can't deny, mostly we don't understand them, and it requires a faith and trust in something mysterious, unseen and seemingly unknowable. There is nothing we can do to control these laws. I wonder, if we could in fact control these laws, and the cycle of life, what would happen?
 It probably wouldn't work out so well in the long run, I strongly suspect. Human beings don't seem to be able to make good choice when left to their own devices and without the help and guidance of a power greater than ourselves.

The Wheel of Fortune depicts the Moirai, the three fates, daughters of Mother Night, conceived without a father. They wove the thread of life in the darkness, and in the secrecy of a cave, symbolizing the womb. They represent the source of life itself, older than the oldest gods, with so much power, the king of gods Zeus, dares not to challenge them. The profound inner journey is heralded. and coming to terms with one's life, past, present and future.
 The Fool is now shaken from complacency and begins the inner journey of humility, that will lead him to his own source.

The Wheel of Fortune is a card of sudden change in fortune, be it bad or good. Rest assured, whatever way the Wheel turns, there will always be growth. I think this is the positive bit. Granted we must dig in to our inner resources personally. 

If we refuse to accept or challenge our circumstance by shaking our fists at God, we may be afflicted with what was called hubris, compounded with even more problems, due to our false pride, and even arrogance. What ever we are in denial of, becomes a harmful nemesis. You don't want to mess with a nemesis, believe me , I know. She is the spirit of divine retribution for hubris. She is a real drag, and will bring you down.

                                                            Nenesis - 1837 - Alfred Rethel

Nine of Swords - Worry & Action

Well, this card is in keeping with the card I drew yesterday dark about clouds and silver linings.
The Nine of Swords, it is what I would call the worry card, and is very much the card full of deep psychological meaning.

We are losing sleep for worry, anxiety, fear, corrosive guilt, foreboding about the future, and what ever negative adjectives you want to throw in the pot.

This frame of mind robs of us energy and strength in every aspect, mind, body and soul. We can't enjoy the present, because we are projecting into the future, and worrying about the past. It reflects a lack of trust and faith and our inability to let go of what we can't control.

We can't control what has happened in the past, and it may be hanging over our heads. We can  make amends, if we have hurt someone else, including ourselves.

Action is the antidote to worry. Whether it be through prayer, meditation, a vacation, ending a relationship or changing geographical location to make a fresh start. However, can you run away for things in your head? Ultimately we can't take a geographical cure, because where ever we go we bring ourselves along, and still have to face our problems.

What is important is that we remain steadfast.

Five of Cups - The Cloud Of Unknowing

I believe the old adage about there being a silver lining behind every dark cloud. This is often very difficult to comprehend when you are in the middle of the dark cloud. When I think of this dark cloud, I reflect on a book I once read, The Cloud of Unknowing.

 In the Five of Cups we see Psyche ( Soul ) pursuing Eros ( Love ), whom she has betrayed and she is full of regret. All the cups have been spilled, and upset, but the fifth cup. Cups symbolizing the emotion, this card can represent a past relationship, and the regret we have about it, but we must accept that it was necessary, and we have much to learn from this experience, although painful.

 Reality levels the playing field, and in order to deepen our relationships, we must let go of our preconceived notions, and unrealistic expectations, and can not remain in a fantasy, or continue to believe and perpetuate an image, as this is an illusion that does not exist.

What remains is the last cup, and we have something left to work with, now based on realistic expectation,  trusting our heart and intuition. It does not mean that this is the end, or the final outcome. If we decide to commit to the work required to improve our situation, and circumstance, there is still a lot that can be salvaged, and something that can be greatly improved upon, and this will deepen the relationship. It is in letting go that we come to know the truth.

Cloud of Unknowing - johnbowmanart.com

The Empress - Bountiful & Beautiful

Seems lately I have a number of female friends, myself included, who are thinking about their mothers. Perhaps being mid Summer when things are in bloom and growing our thoughts are drawn to the Empress the Mother of All who represents abundance and luxury.
The Empress is ruled by Venus the Roman goddess of love.

We learn how to become women from our mothers, who nurture, protect and love us always, unconditionally, even from beyond the grave.  She connects us with the feeling of safety and trust in life. Our mothers live deep within the small of our heart of hearts.

The Empress provides creativity, imagination, and fertile growth.
 I do not see the Empress as perfection, but as a real woman, who is of the earth. She knows the suffering, and the joy, and she is perfect in her imperfection . She encourages us to celebrate who we are, as we are, as real women.

We may not be mothers biologically, but we can still provide those mothering qualities toward others, and toward ourselves. Without the inner experience of the Great Mother within , we can not bring any thing into fruition. We need to understand how to be patient, and gentle with ourselves and others.

Walker Evans - Photograph

Five of Wands - Intuition

When I was a child, I always sensed the presence of the Creator, the God of my understanding, even though it wasn't developed in the way it is now, the presence was there. An innocent trust was what defined my faith, and the way it was manifested, was through my intuition. My intuition was greatly affected by outside factors, and forces beyond my control, and diminished greatly for a time, and I lost my way in my adolescence and early adult life.

Like Jason, it seemed I constantly was fighting that dragon.  Fortunately I never completely lost my faith, and perhaps I was too stubborn to let people, places, and things to overpower me, and I held on, regardless of what was happening. Fortunately I have had many rallying helpers like Medea, akin to the High Priestess, who embodies the feminine power of intuition and instinct, to assist me in my dragon fights.

 We can have a creative vision, but the realities of life, in the form of the dragon represent the powers of the earth  resisting change. These can be found in the many material limitations, be it money, physical restrictions due to illness, or fatigue, and can coincide with fear of failure, inertia or apathy, that often are the cause of trouble, and struggle within the inner or outer self. These obstacles that arise, cannot be avoided in life, and accommodations or compromise must be made, while still maintaining the integrity of our creative visions, and lost treasure, like the Golden Fleece.

Seven of Swords - Be Brave

The Seven of Swords tells us to be brave, and to be careful to overcome difficulties and to apply our mental energy.

When we are in a position of trying to reach a desired goal, and challenges arise, we need to be patient, have our wits about us, and need to be cautious as we proceed. Often this means there are compromises to be made, but we can use humour,  diplomacy, and tact in order to a reach a successful outcome. We need a new plan.

I remember this radio show called, The Dead Dog Cafe on CBC. It was produced by the writer and actor Tom King. The show was pretty funny and the actors were all First Nations. At the end of the show they would always give this message.  " Stay Calm, Be Brave, Wait For The Signs. "   It always stuck with me because I think there is wisdom found in this statement.

When we are faced with some kind of immediate crisis, the reaction is usually one of panic. If we panic, we can't think clearly, we can't hear that inner voice,. Breathing deeply from you diaphragm  helps a lot to calm ourselves, because we need most of our oxygen for our brain function.

Being brave of course means we need to have courage, but this does not mean the absence of fear, but we are in control of ourselves, the fear is not controlling our behaviour. Panic is never a positive reaction, and can even kill people, in some circumstances. So it is essential that we learn how to remain calm.

What are the signs we wait for? We will act with wisdom and honesty, unimpaired by fear, because we trust our gut, and our intuition. Nature too gives us signs, as do our our dreams, and it always helps to talk to someone we trust implicitly.

Three of Swords - In Weakness, Strength

Usually this card conjures up images and feelings of sorrowful heartbreak, and great loss. The idea of having swords piercing the heart is gruesome, and disturbing to say the lest. However, in spite of, and even because of this heartache and loss, we can now heal and choose to thrive, releasing a strength, wisdom and compassion toward others, who are experiencing similar tribulations, because we have known the dark night of the soul.

 It may feel like all is lost and we are overwhelmed by despair and desolation. This is not true, and much can be gained, if we can see what is to be gleaned from heartache, within the depth of our soul. We can develop a strength of character, finding in our weakness, strength. There is a resolution.
 We must take care of ourselves, and the path is being cleared and illuminated, so we can find our way ahead.

 Words by St. John of the Cross; arranged and adapted by Loreena McKennitt

Music by Loreena McKennitt
Upon a darkened night
the flame of love was burning in my breast
And by a lantern bright
I fled my house while all in quiet rest
Shrouded by the night
And by the secret stair I quickly fled
The veil concealed my eyes
while all within lay quiet as the dead
CHORUS
Oh night thou was my guide
of night more loving than the rising sun
Oh night that joined the lover
to the beloved one
transforming each of them into the other
Upon that misty night
in secrecy, beyond such mortal sight
Without a guide or light
than that which burned so deeply in my heart
That fire t'was led me on
and shone more bright than of the midday sun
To where he waited still
it was a place where no one else could come

CHORUS
Within my pounding heart
which kept itself entirely for him
He fell into his sleep
beneath the cedars all my love I gave
From o'er the fortress walls
the wind would his hair against his brow
And with its smoothest hand
caressed my every sense it would allow
CHORUS
I lost myself to him
and laid my face upon my lover's breast
And care and grief grew dim
as in the morning's mist became the light
There they dimmed amongst the lilies fair
there they dimmed amongst the lilies fair
there they dimmed amongst the lilies fair

Eight of Swords - Between a Rock and a Hard Place

The Eight of Swords has come up more than once for me lately, and I'm she it will again and again. I has become a good nemesis of sorts. Regardless, it is always good reality check, in that it represents for me finding yourself between a rock and a hard place, and having to face things head on, if you want to overcome difficulty and obstacles.

Patience and prudence is required, which sounds easier said, than done. These are skills acquired and practiced. If I am not shown this skill, given a chance to try it, and then practice it as a young person, unfortunately we often are years, learning how to face things head on, which can lead to us using other coping mechanisms, such as denial, that can manifest itself in many unhealthy ways.

 Truth is, sometimes the reality of life sucks, and we all experience times of wanting to throw in the towel, we want to give up, and think perhaps it would be easier to just run away and hide.
Desperate measures can even lead many to a jumping off point, where they feel afraid to live, and afraid to die. This is a very dark place to be, feeling overwhelmed, confused, and consumed with fear.

Honesty with ourselves, having an open heart, and mind, along with a willingness to reach out, and to do whatever it takes to improve our situation in a positive healthy way, are the tools at our disposal.
 I always think of it as a willingness to be willing, that has made all the all the difference for me.
And if you don't feel strong enough, in that you are lacking trust, faith and courage, borrow someone else's until you can find your own.

The Moon - The Crone

I think most folks, especially those involved with the Tarot, are in love with the Moon. I know I certainly am, and have always been greatly drawn and enchanted by the Moon for many reasons, but primarily I think, because it rules the subconscious,  associated strongly with psychic powers, and the intuition.

Recently the super moon appeared in the Summer sky, which was a beautiful sight to behold. I felt it's power and influence this year more than years past. Perhaps it's my age, and exactly where I am at this point in my life. Being in a third phase of womanhood, means that we could find ourselves clinging to elusive dreams, and it means that we must have even more faith and hope, for the future. The subconscious dream world, and the Star of Hope will lead the way.

This may sound like a vague and rather ethereal explanation, but the moon-goddess Hecate is very elusive, being the goddess of enchantment, and ruler of the mysterious, unknown, and subconscious underworld, but the light over her head brings illumination and wisdom.

Hecate is the moon-goddess, and augers a time of confusion, gestational changes, and uncertainty. She represents the three changing phases of life, and embodies the Wise Woman, and the opportunity to become the Crone.

At this three phase of life, of the Crone, it is important to pay attention to one's dreams, both ones we have while sleeping, and when we are awake.
As well, Tarot readings are now a vital tool. Tarot helps to deepen understanding, and the experience of the unconscious world, providing insight and guidance through the murky waters of the subconscious.

 La Mariposa - Butterfly Woman, Egg Tempera on Board - Catherine Meyers - 2011

La Mariposa, Butterfly Woman
By Clarissa Pinkola Estes
…To the visitors, a butterfly is a delicate thing. “O fragile beauty,” they dream. So they are necessarily shaken when out hops Maria Lujan. And she is big, really big, like the Venus of Willendorf, like the Mother of Days, like Diego Rivera’s heroic-size woman who built Mexico City with a single curl of her wrist.
And Maria Lujan, oh, she is old, very, very old, like a woman come back from dust, old like old river, old like old pines at timberline. One of her shoulders is bare. Her red-and-black manta, blanket dress, hops up and down with her inside it. Her heavy body and her very skinny legs made her look like a hopping spider wrapped in a tamale. She hops on one foot and then on the other. She waves her feather fan to and fro. She is The Butterfly arrived to strengthen the weak. She is that which most think of as not strong: age, the butterfly, the feminine.
Butterfly Maiden’s hair reaches to the ground. It is thick as ten maize sheaves and it is stone gray. And she wears butterfly wings-the kind you see on little children who are being angels in school plays. Her hips are like two bouncing bushel baskets and the fleshy shelf at the top of her buttocks is wide enough to ride two children. She hops, hops, hops, not like a rabbit, but in footsteps that leave echoes.
“I am here, here, here…
“I am here, here, here…
“Awaken you, you, you!”
She sways her feather fan up and down, spreading the earth and the people of the earth with the pollinating spirit of the butterfly. Her shell bracelets rattle like snakes, her bell garters tinkle like rain. Her shadow with its big belly and little legs dances from one side of the dance circle to the other. Her feet leave little puffs of dust behind. The tribes are reverent, involved. But some visitors look at each other and murmur “This is it? This is the Butterfly Maiden?” They are puzzled, some even disillusioned. They no longer seem to remember that the spirit world is a place where wolves are women, bears are husbands, and old women of lavish dimensions are butterflies.
Yes, it is fitting that Wild Woman/Butterfly Woman is old and substantial, for she carries the thunder world in one breast, the underworld in the other. Her back is the curve of the planet Earth with all its crops and foods and animals. The back of her neck carries the sunrise and the sunset. Her left thigh holds all the lodge poles, her right thigh all the she-wolves of the world. Her belly holds all the babies that will ever be born.
Butterfly Maiden is the female fertilizing force. Carrying the pollen from one place to another, she cross-fertilizes, just as the soul fertilizes mind with night dreams, just as archetypes fertilize the mundane world. She is the centre. She brings the opposites together by taking a little from here and putting it there. Transformation is no more complicated that that. This is what she teaches. This is how the butterfly does it. This is how the soul does it.
Butterfly Woman mends the erroneous idea that transformation is only for the tortured, the saintly, or only for the fabulously strong. The Self need not carry mountains to transform. A little is enough. A little goes a long way. A little changes much. The fertilizing force replaces the moving of mountains.
Butterfly Maiden pollinates the souls of the earth: It is easier than you think, she says. She is shaking her feather fan, and she’s hopping, for she is spilling spiritual pollen all over the people who are there, Native Americans, little children, visitors, everyone. She is using her entire body as a blessing, her old, frail, big, short-legged, short-necked, spotted body. This is woman connected to her wild nature, the translator of the instinctual, the fertilizing force, the mender, the remember of old ideas. She is La voz mitológica. She is wild woman personified.
The butterfly dancer must be old because she represents the soul that is old. She is wide of thigh and broad of rump because she carries much. Her grey hair certifies that she need no longer observe taboos about touching others. She is allowed to touch everyone: boys, babies, men, women, girl children, the old, the ill, and the dead. The Butterfly Woman can touch everyone. It is her privilege to touch all, at last. This is her power. Hers is the body of La Mariposa, the butterfly.
- Clarissa Pinkola Estes
Excerpt from Women Who Run With The Wolves

The Star - Hope

This being my 100th post on this blog I think it is fitting that I drew The Star, which is, I think one of the most hopeful cards of the Major Arcana. It is the card of hope and promise, but can also warn against false hope, which can set us up for great disappointment, disillusion and despair.

Here Pandora is akin to Eve, before the Fall, full of love, light, and all things innocent, and beautiful.
She is the epitome of the feminine, the intuitive, feeling, imaginative and the instinctive side of our nature.

In spite of, and even because of our difficulties, and burden, we move above and beyond, mere survival. We grow, and thrive beyond our unhappiness of the past, and we now have an even stronger will to live. We have accepted our burdens and struggles, have grown and  are becoming stronger individuals.

 I once heard it said by a holy man, and I paraphrase; The cross is heavy for those that drag it, but light for those that embrace it.
What the world needs now is hope, and we would do well to impart hope to others. We are living in trouble times indeed, some may even say the end times. Regardless, we all need to have hope, meaning and faith, otherwise things would be completely hopeless.

 I always fondly remember, what I saw on the small button, a young punk rocker was wearing in Tim Horton's, many years ago which said " Hope For The Hopeless. " It might sound funny, but it is true I think and almost beyond hopeful.

The other day I saw a video of a homeless man. It is I think a commentary on hope, from one who may to some seem hopeless. Post by R̲o̲y J̲a̲n̲s̲e̲n̲.

Apple River Tarot Readings

                         Apple River Tarot Readings

About :

“ The way Tarot ' works ' in a predictive sense is as a kind of mirror of the psyche. The archetypal nature of the images strikes hidden, unconscious chords in the card reader, and reflects unknown knowledge or insight in relation to the client's situation-thus apparently revealing things which could not possibly, in any rational way, be discoverable. This is why ' clairvoyant ' or psychic ' powers are not a prerequisite for a sensitive reader, but rather, an awareness of the archetypal patterns or currents at work in life reflected by the images on the cards."

Tarot can reveal where you are presently, how you got there and where to best focus your energy, and we will explore opportunities for clearing obstacles and meeting challenges on your path by focusing on and activating your natural abilities and capacities.

Thinking about a Tarot Card Party? Looking for an personal individual reading? Face to face and online readings available via email.

Contact Me for More Details:

Catherine Meyers

email: catmey7@gmail.com

Phone: 207-217- 9144

http://applerivertarotreadings.blogspot.ca

Three of Wands - New Possibilities

Wands signify growth, action, and energy and are associated with the element of  fire and the fire signs of the Zodiac: Aries, Leo and Sagittarius.

The Three of Wands heralds new possibilities, and it gives one hope. This card signifies accomplishment, new challenges, optimism and satisfaction, involving an original idea that is arising. This is a high point, a good foundation, and the initial completion has been made, but it's not over yet, there is still work ahead, but we can meet the challenges ahead with courage and strength.

Fear can be viewed as a very positive emotion, if it causes us to do the right thing. Often our fears and concerns are manifested in our dreams, whether we know it or not. I  believe our dreams are a powerful means to work through issues, and difficulties we can't always rationally solve, in our every day lives. Tarot can assist us in understanding the meanings of our dreams, as they can share similar unconscious archetypal images, that the Tarot cards depict.

I had such a dream early this morning. There is a direct parallel connection and meaning between my dream, and the card I have drawn today. The Three of Wands has enabled me to process the meaning of my dream, which was a little disconcerting, but comforting at the same time. It was about forgiveness and moving on spiritually.

 We see in the Mythic Tarot, Pelias kneeling before Jason, offering him his rightful crown that he has stolen, butPelias is not asking for forgiveness, he offers the crown to Jason because he is afraid. Jason could have easily lashed out and killed him, but he did not. I don't know if Jason ever forgave Pelias, as he had been deeply betrayed him, his own flesh and blood. He also lied to Jason, put his life in peril, and usurped the crown. Pelias' life was full of treachery and betrayal eventually coming to a gruesome end.

  Asking for forgiveness, to forgive another and to be forgiven is healing for all individuals involved, if you allow it to be. Usually the problems occur when we can't forgive ourselves, in spite of the fact we have been forgiven. Or when we hold onto resentment, which can poison every aspect of our lives, growing it's bitter root.

Page of Swords - Self-Worth & Happiness

Here in the Page of Swords, we meet Zephyrus, brother to Boreas. They were trouble makers stirring up the forces of nature with storms, and various brouhahas. Fortunately, his kind and loving bride Iris, civilized Zephyrus, and his disposition was greatly transformed, as influence of Temperance would definitely affect his attitude and behaviour. Not an uncommon occurrence when people become coupled. When deciding to commit to a relationship, it is with hopeful expectation the two individuals will be a positive influence on one another.

Gossip can be the downfall of the Page of Swords, and we must guard against it. There is also the possibility that because of the emergence of new ideas, this can create petty jealousy, which causes disruption, resulting in malicious gossip, from those envious of independent thinkers.

 If you are the type to always concern yourself with the opinion of others, you can easily fall victim to this kind  of negative and destructive behaviour from another. People who exhibit this negative character defect, are often very perceptive and aware of this vulnerability in others, and will use it, to promote their own agenda, by way of hurtful gossip, that can wound deeply.

As well, there can be a tendency to make mountains out of mole hills, much the way children do, because they don't know better, they are often self-absorbed and don't understand adult matters, such as being held accountable and responsible for your own actions.

There are still many folks who carry on behaving in this manner, when they supposedly have reached the age of maturity. I avoid these folks, because if they can draw you into their chaos they will, so it best to avoid them, especially if this envious and spiteful behaviour becomes apparent, lest you fall prey to petty quarrels, finding yourself in a constant state of stress. Usually the antecedent to gossip is resentment, not a luxury many people can afford, and feelings of worthlessness often causes another to compare, leaving one feeling miserable, with increased feelings of failure. It is a downward spiral from here on in, if nothing changes.

On a much more positive note, the Page represents beginnings and are messengers. The Page of Swords is associated with the element of air, signifying quick mental, youthful energy, and powers. Swords represent the intellect, where reason prevails over emotion providing clarity, and cutting through muddled thought. Swords are also associated with the air signs, Gemini, Libra and Aquarius.

It is suggested that we be accountable to ourselves for our behaviour, and that we take responsibility for our own  happiness. Self-worth and happiness are a direct result of a confidence, tempered with humility, when one draws on, and develops the mental powers, and creative imagination, that the Page of Swords reflects through his curiosity about life, the world and people.

Temperance - Finding Our Center

Before my recovery in the 12 step program temperance was not something I knew how to practice, no matter how I tried, I was always going to extremes. I lived with an all or nothing attitude and behaviour.

Here we meet the beautiful angel Iris in the Major Arcana card of Temperance, linked to the Zodiac sign of Sagittarius. Temperance represents the mixing of elements within ourselves and our relationships.

The card indicates good health in a holistic and balanced manner, that promotes moderation, and control in the way we live life. Living our lives in harmony and cooperation improves our relationship with ourselves and with others.

Though Justice and Temperance appear as opposites, they are also complimentary. Iris is kind, loving and merciful. Athene (Justice) is reflective, rational, and in her judgement she fights for principles, over passion, holding her instincts in control, being fair and objective. Her thought is not based on her personal feelings, but an impartial, objective assessment.

Justice and Temperance can be seen as enemies that exist within us, and how they are manifested in the way we approach life. Perhaps we allow our heart to dominate, or we are ruled always by reason and intellect, when what we need, is to find our center, a balanced heart and approach; integrating abstract truth, with the heart.

Kabbalah Tree of Life - Pastel, Coloured Pencil - 2010 - Catherine Meyers

Three of Cups - Rite of Passage

 
Oh Three of Cups, how I love you and how I hate you. I say this because I am reminded by this card of the first flush of love, of the happiness and joy of committed love and the loss of love. Simultaneously I think of it as being party time, a celebration is eminent, and a moving toward retirement. I never imagined looking forward to being 65, but the fact is, I am in four more years. I will have a somewhat improved standard of living, and now I've finally come to the end after 20 years, my mortgage will be paid off in a few months. This will give me the feelings of fulfillment and completion, much like the way one feels when you fall in love. But the Three of Cups is a card of transition or rite of passage, with further developments to come, as the journey is not finished, and there is still hard work ahead.

Having spent most of my life single, becoming a young newly wed widow at 27 years of age, and then was divorced  six years later, escaping an abusive husband. Honestly, I would be lying if I said I am glad to be single, but at the same time I can't say I am unhappy with my single life. There are many worse things in life than being single. Being married or coupled with someone you are not in love with, is the worst kind of loneliness and unhappiness. As well my identity is not defined by a married or single status, by my age, colour, race or creed.

According to the Mythic Tarot deck, the Three of Cups indicates that I am at the beginnings of initiation into deeper levels of the heart experience, heralding further explorations in the future, as the Three of Cups divinatory meaning suggests. Well that's good news, and I feel this in my bones.

 We never know what the future holds, but what is important to me is having hope about emotional fulfillment and promise regardless of my past losses in life and love. Finding contentment in whatever life circumstance, is vital to my happiness, and peace of mind.

The Handless Maiden- Egg Tempera on Wood Panel, 12"x 12" 2012, Catherine Meyers

Nine of Pentacles - Self-Value

I attended what is affectionately called, by a group of old childhood women friends, WW or Women's Weekend, on the July 4th, 5th, and 6th. These weekends are always memorable, for many reasons. It's a wonderful thing to come together, as a group of women, to celebrate enduring  friendships and bonds.


 These weekends we have continued for many years now, and always reinforce our friendship, and our lives.  It is a time to affirm our appreciation of ourselves and for each other as friends, and as women. These gatherings fulfill the basic need for belonging, power, freedom and fun, with much emphasis on fun!.
We value our similarities and our differences. We accept, respect, and value one another's identity. It's a great feeling and realization to be with women who have reached the point in life, where we all have come through many trials and tribulations, come out the other side, achieved many of our dreams in spite of difficulties, and been able to overcome and strengthen our individual identities.

One of my friends asked if I would do a reading for her, which a happily agreed to, and it was a very affirming reading. The cards and how they reveal themselves, always amaze and fascinate me, with every reading I do.

What I love and appreciate most about the Nine of Pentacles, like no other card, it embodies a satisfaction that comes from finding a great sense of self-value and worth, regardless if material possessions and wealth are gone, as this is not what really defines a person. This satisfaction has a permanence and indestructibility, because it comes from deep within ourselves, and it is independent of anything, or any one outside of the self. Having a strong sense of identity, self-sufficiency, confidence and belief in one's abilities, all contribute to our happiness and success.

It really is essential to be good friends, if not best friends with yourself, and although we all have people that have contributed to our sense of self-value and worth, we can feel good about what we have achieved, and overcome. Be grateful, celebrate and share your talent, wisdom, knowledge and the understanding that you have gained.

Six of Wands - Success

The Six of Wands is a heady kind of card. It is about triumph, recognition and validation from others. You are rewarded for all your effort and hard work This card is very satisfying on an individual basis, because it heralds validation for perhaps some kind of creative work that one has achieved. However, it is important to remain humble, to keep you feet firmly planted on the ground, and know that there is still work ahead.

Success never comes without hard work, and if it does, it's often not appreciated particularly if it's given on a sliver platter. I have seen this on more than one occasion, where individuals take advantage of another's generosity, or their new found windfall is taken for granted. I think the reason for this behaviour can be partly attributed to human nature, however I do believe there are two kinds of people in life, those who give, and those who take. When I think about success I ask myself, what will my legacy be when I leave this mortal coil?

The Six of Wands really makes me contemplate what happiness and success mean. Life does not come with a manual for success. Many define it monetarily, and they follow this path, pursuing material richness, as opposed to inner treasures and gifts. Many do not simply perceive happiness as the thing that makes you successful.

 I have no desire to be wealthy, but like most folks would not choose poverty either. If we believe the meaning of success is happiness, then I think we can choose that for ourselves. But as Abraham Maslow' s hierarchy of needs indicates, we need to have the basics covered, such a food and shelter, before we can move forward in our pursuit of that elusive bird of happiness and on to self-actualization.

King of Wands - Leadership

In spite of the character defects that the King of Wands can exhibit, possessing a haughty and quick temper,  a know it all attitude, with a tendency to be bossy, regardless, he is still an honest, a self-starter, and a natural leader. Full of creative imagination, energy and action. He can back up his ideas and is a real visionary.

We can clearly see the King of Wands has many positive personality traits, that a leader needs. That said, he seems to be a bit of a contradiction. He can be selfish, impatient, and intolerant with other's imperfections, and limitations. He may think of himself as being the general manager of the Universe but simultaneously he can very generous and kind.

When I reflect on the qualities of a good leader, being bossy, opinionated and intolerant of others imperfections, having a short temper, these are not personality traits that come to mind. I think perhaps the King of Wands like this, may have been exposed to a father who exhibited these negative characteristics and behaviours and may have something to prove.
What comes to my mind as a vital leadership quality is one who perceives a leader as being first and foremost a servant, who sets an example, as a role model to others.

9 Qualities of the Servant Leader

1. Values diverse opinions
2. Cultivates a culture of trust
3. Develops other leaders
4. Helps people with life issues
5. Encourages
6. Sells instead of tells
7. Thinks you, not me
8. Thinks long-term
9. Acts with humility

Five of Swords - Accepting Limitation

Portrayed here in the Five of Swords is Apollo, whom is revealing to Orestes his fate, and what obligations that lie ahead of him. Apollo sternly points to the five swords, regardless of how unfair it all may seem. He is expected to accept this allotment, without complaint or avoidance.

 All of us have to accept and come to terms with limitations, within ourselves, with others, and existing situations. At some juncture it is necessary, and positive to face reality, though it may not feel this way at the time, as it is not always easy for most of us, especially if we don't like the reality we are having to face. Hopefully in the long run, there will be a peace of mind, and we can learn to live with whatever circumstance we face and through acceptance, gain a new found happiness.

There are a myriad of actions we can take in order to accept our own personal limitations, and many of these are most helpful, whether it be meditation, counseling, some kind of self-help, or even a change in our relationships, living arrangement or location.


When thinking about the god Apollo, and consider Orestes allotment in life, I don't respond well to part of the idea conveyed. Yes, it is true, we all need to accept limitation in our lives, sometimes swallow our pride, but I am so I'm grateful I don't see the God of my understanding as stern, and merciless, as Apollo is toward Orestes, informing him that he must avenge his father's death, this is his fate, destiny and obligation, no questions asked. Orestes has no choice in the matter. I believe we make our own destinies, determined by our own choices made, and based on our own free will if so, I am not free.

 One thing that does not foster, or enable our ability to accept, and move beyond our limitations in life, is when another attempts to order us, through power and control, to behave in a particular way.  Nor is harshness, criticism and judgement from others, especially when in comes from ourselves, or from those we love. As well, it is of no earthly use to anyone, telling them they are stupid, lazy or hurling other threats and insults. Hurtful, and heavy handed words or actions usually increase, along a continuum, and result in abuse or a cycle of violence.

Obedience to me, has always had strong connotations of doing something out of fear or guilt, and control by outside forces. I have learned, the only way or reason I will "obey" God, and the laws of the Universe, is as a direct result of my own free will. I have chosen to obey, because I want to, and God has given me the ability to decide, and whatever choice I make, natural consequences will ensue, be they positive or negative.