Stoic Tarot Musings for Monday May 20th, 2024

In today’s reading, we explore the mystical theme of ‘Navigating Relationships & Desires’. We begin our journey through the arcanum with the enchanting The Lovers, followed by the pensive Four of Cups, and lastly, the alluring Nine of Cups.

Often, The Lovers is perceived as a card of romance and harmony, but at its core, it signifies choice. Like an ancient crossroads, we stand at the intersection of paths, and we must decide what we will bring into our world. To echo the wisdom of Epictetus,

“We have two ears and one mouth so that we can listen twice as much as we speak.”

In the context of The Lovers, this implies listening not only to others, but also to the subtle whisperings of our hearts and the deeper callings of our spirits. Will you heed their voices and create more harmony in your relationships and your life?

The stoic course unfolds as we reach the Four of Cups, a card often associated with dissatisfaction and ennui. However, perhaps the real challenge is not boredom, but the richness of our inner lives that we overlook. As Marcus Aurelius, the renowned Stoic philosopher puts it:

“The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts: therefore, guard accordingly.”

If you’re currently feeling unfulfilled or unsatisfied, consider this a call to tap into your inner resources. Remember, the world is but a reflection of your inner state; when you align yourself with joy and gratitude, your reality will follow suit.

Finally, we arrive at the Nine of Cups, regarded as the ‘wish-fulfillment’ card. It’s a tantalising promise, a sweet possibility. Yet, the stoic teaches us that desires can be a double-edged sword. As Seneca once warned:

“If you wish to make Pythocles wealthy, don’t add to his store of money, but subtract from his desires.”

While the Nine of Cups may signal a time of fulfilment coming your way, it’s equally crucial to assess your desires. Are they aligning you with your highest self, or pulling you away from your inner harmony and equanimity?

Today’s reading calls for an inward journey. It’s about acknowledging the deep wisdom within you and allowing it to dictate your choices. The lure of The Lovers, the rumination of the Four of Cups, and the allure of the Nine of Cups all invite you to explore the depths of your desires and choices, but with an air of stoic grace.

Journal Prompt: Reflect on these cards and their significance in your life at this moment. How are your choices shaping your relationships? Are you in tune with your inner voice? What desires need to be curbed or nurtured for you to find genuine fulfilment? Keep these musings in your journal for future reflection. Remember, self-knowledge is the first step towards wisdom.