Monday, December 18th, 2023: A Journey Towards Harmony and Inner Strength

Welcome my philosophical friends to another mystic Monday of Tarot and introspective inquiry. Today, our deck commences with the Ten of Cups, traverses through the Six of Swords, and culminates with the Strength card. From these cards, a serene story of emotional fulfilment, transition, and inner fortitude unfolds.

Our first guide is the Ten of Cups, often portrayed as a joyful family underneath a rainbow of ten chalices. The classical interpretation of this card reflects fulfilled emotional relationships, harmony and joy in our personal connections. Embrace the stoic perspective of “harmony with nature” as Epictetus would have implied. Recognize that the world, like a river, flows according to its rhythm. It may wash away some connections but it also brings new ones on its shores. Through the ebb and flow, it is our responsibility, perhaps our purpose, to nurture these connections with kindness and understanding. They enrich our lives as no material possession could.

Moving forward, our journey carries us to the Six of Swords. Depicted as a sombre transition over water, it symbolizes a difficult but necessary passage. As Seneca tells us, “We suffer more often in imagination than in reality,” remember that our fears and concerns about change are often larger in our minds than in reality. Change, no matter how unsettling, provides us opportunities to learn, grow, and adapt, enabling us to hone our resilience. In your transitions, look for the hidden lessons and opportunities for growth.

Finally, we step into the energy of Strength. Contrary to popular belief, tarot Strength doesn’t solely depict raw prowess but signifies courage, patience and compassion. Like Marcus Aurelius said, “You have power over your mind - not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.” In a show of kind-hearted harmony between a lion and a maiden, the Strength card encourages us to cultivate our inner fortitude. Through understanding and gentleness, we can tame the most ferocious elements of our nature. Resilience is not about the absence of vulnerability, it’s knowing that you can deal with the adversities life throws at you.

Today’s reading embodies a story of love, transition, and inner resilience. It beckons you to foster fulfilling relationships, to not fear change, to find strength within yourself by cultivating compassion and understanding.

Journal Prompt: Reflect upon a recent change that seemed daunting and how it had an unexpected twist of growth or wisdom. Explore one area in your life where you could show more compassion and understanding, either towards yourself or others.