A Stoic Reading for April 27th, 2024

Greetings dear readers, today’s tarot reading revolves around the theme of Balance and Progress with a dash of caution:

Let us delve into our tarot reading. The first card is the Four of Wands. This card heralds celebration, harmony, prosperity, and home. The four pillars in the classic Rider-Waite deck stand as a testament to stability and grounding. As Seneca once said:

“True happiness is to enjoy the present, without anxious dependence upon the future.”

So, the Four of Wands urges you to enjoy and acknowledge the stability and balance you have achieved, no matter how small or large. Have you acknowledged your growth and progress recently? The harmonious balance in the Four of Wands is a gentle reminder to celebrate your achievements, and to appreciate your present surroundings and connections.

Next, we have the Knight of Pentacles. This Knight is the epitome of hard work, routine, productivity, and responsibility. It’s essential to realize that progress is grounded in consistent effort and unwavering patience. All good things, as we know, come to those who are willing to shoulder responsibility and trudge forward slowly but surely. Our resilient Knight echoes this sentiment perfectly. As Marcus Aurelius wisely advised,

“Do not allow yourself to be dismayed by external happenings. Instead, always center yourself within and turn to your guiding principles.”

So, stay anchored to your values and goals. Allow yourself to work tirelessly and patiently for your dreams.

The third card reveals a warning. The Devil card often symbolizes materialism, bondage, and excess. Are we chained to our desires, our fears, or a toxic situation, unable to break free? This card serves as a wake-up call. Epictetus reminds us:

“Freedom is secured not by the fulfilling of one’s desires, but by the removal of desire.”

The Devil card invites you to confront your inner demons, examine your attachments, and understand your deeper fears. It empowers you to shake off the chains that bind you to unnecessary fears, and unleash your capability to realise your higher self.

In conclusion, today’s reading bids you to celebrate and appreciate your achievements (Four of Wands), stay committed to your grind (Knight of Pentacles), and to scrutinise your fears and desires (The Devil).

Journaling Prompt of the Day:

Reflect on your current attachments or fears. What are the chains you are bound by and how are they limiting your growth? How can you attain the balance between acknowledging accomplishments and steadily working towards higher goals? Write about not only your fears and attachments but how you plan to work your way through them, step by step. Replace your fear with courage and turn from bondage to freedom.

Until next time, may you find balance, relentless patience, and courageous freedom on your journey of self-discovery.