A STOIC JOURNEY THROUGH THE TAROT: SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 4th, 2024

Good morning, fellow seekers. What freshness does this new day bring for us to explore and delve into?

Our first card of the day is the Wheel of Fortune. A card of change and fortune, its rotation symbolizes the cyclical nature of life - the ever-turning wheel of existence. To the stoic, this card isn’t about luck but about the unpredictable rhythm of life.

”Change is the only constant.”

So said Heraclitus, a pre-Socratic philosopher who pointed out the flow of the universe. As stoics, we understand that change is inevitable and accepting it with grace reduces the friction in life. Some changes are joyous, while others may appear daunting, yet in its nature change is neither good nor bad. Following our stoic teachings, let us view this card as our reminder to accept and adapt to the changes life brings, fully immersible in the cycle of life.

Secondly, we have the Five of Pentacles. Traditionally, it indicates hardship, insecurity, and uncertainty. However, giving in to these feelings would go against our stoic principles.

”We suffer more in imagination than in reality.”

Seneca’s noteworthy words ring true with this card. Perception of our situation can often morph reality into something far worse. The Five of Pentacles encourages us to endure the hardships as a part of our human experience, and not as punishment or trial. Consider this card a reminder to shift your perspective and unveil the inherent strength within you, even in times of struggle.

Lastly, we meet the Six of Cups. This card usually signifies innocence, nostalgia, and past connections. Yet, as responsive beings, we need to remember the words of Marcus Aurelius:

“Forget everything else. Keep hold of this alone and remember it: Each of us lives only now, this brief instant. The rest has been lived already or is impossible to see.”

The Six of Cups encourages an exploration of our past. However, from a stoic perspective, we understand to not be entangled in it. Instead, we aim to learn and grow from our past experiences, appreciating the person we have become today.

For today’s journal prompt, consider:

• How do I accept and adapt to change in my life?
• What have I learned from my past that has made me who I am today?

Breathe in deeply, my friends, as we continue this journey together. Walk with resilience in the face of change, shift perspectives in your trials, and remember to live in the present, yet honor the wisdom your past has gifted you. Until our paths cross again tomorrow…