Tuesday March 12th, 2024

An image emphasizing a public figure with a regal aura, sitting on a throne at a beach. His demeanor is composed and calm, holding a large ornate chalice in his hands. The sea behind him embodies chaos, with waves crescendoing dramatically, yet his tranquility remains undisturbed, showing utter control over his emotions. Drawing inspiration from the detailed and symbolic aesthetic of pre-1912 tarot cards, machine learning algorithms attempt to infuse the scene with similar stylized elements.

Welcome to your daily Tarot reading for Tuesday, March 12th, 2024. I believe there is much to be learned from Tarot and Stoic philosophy. With this in mind, let’s dive into today’s reading.

The first card our assistant turned over for us is the King of Cups. This card stands for emotional balance and control, much like a mature, compassionate king. However, even as we approach life with a sense of calmness, the image on the card reminds us of the tumultuous sea, symbolic of deep emotions that occasionally roil beneath our serene surface. Stoic philosopher, Epictetus, advises us, “First learn the meaning of what you say, and then speak.” He reminds us that when emotions run high, we must take a step back, balance, and evaluate our feelings before reacting.

Next in our spread, we have the Ace of Cups. Traditionally, the Ace of Cups represents new beginnings in the emotional sphere of our lives. Standing at the precipice of these new emotional states can be intimidating, but also exhilarating. Stoics teach us that our reactions and perceptions of our emotions are within our control. Marcus Aurelius, a Stoic philosopher, gives us sound advice - “You have power over your mind - not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.” In the presence of this overflowing cup, we’re called to embrace our emotions as they ebb and flow, as well as take control of their influence in our day-to-day lives.

The final card of today’s reading is The Tower. A somewhat challenging card, it stands for sudden, unforeseeable changes. Yet, through the lens of Stoic philosophy, this is not a cause for panic. By recognizing the impermanent nature of all things, we can find peace amidst the unexpected. Seneca, the great stoic, reminds us, “He who fears death will never do anything worth of a man who is alive.” The Tower asks us to remember, nothing is stable and to make the best of the present is real wisdom.

The overarching theme of this reading tells us a story of an emotional journey starting with serenity, moving to discovery, and ultimately leading to an unforeseeable change. Yet, in each instance, we’re reminded of our stoic roots of control, strength, and acceptance of impermanence. Take the time today to explore this theme, noting any relevant personal reflections or revelations.

Today’s journal prompt: Reflect on significant emotional changes that have happened in your life. How did you react? Moving forward, how might the wisdom of the Stoics guide your future reactions to such events? Allow your thoughts to flow, and don’t feel obliged to answer immediately. Let it sit with you and address it when you feel compelled. Happy self-exploration!