Thursday June 20th, 2024

Greetings on this intriguing Thursday, June 20th, 2024. Our chosen theme for today’s tarot reading is “Harnessing One’s Energy: The Art of Strategic Action.”

Our first card drawn today is the Seven of Swords. Historically, this card indicates cunning, strategy and calculated actions, which may sound a bit intimidating. However, we need not fear the energy represented by this card. As stoics, we understand that there’s no such thing as inherently good or bad; merely our judgments make it so. Upon facing deception or treacherous situations, as depicted in the Seven of Swords, we can choose to turn further inward, find our strength, and devise subtle ways to overcome.

”The obstacle is the way.” - Marcus Aurelius

Keep these wise words by Aurelius in mind while dealing with the energy of this card. No matter what obstructions you face, remember they’re not roadblocks but rather parameters to guide your path. Sometimes the wisest way forward is not to barrel through, but to strategize, take a calculated detour, and continue your journey with grace.

The second card drawn is the Eight of Wands. As per classical tarot imagery, this card is often associated with rapid movement, change, and progression. Here’s a remarkable twist - while the Seven of Swords urged us to enact our discreet strategies, the Eight of Wands encourages us to hasten our pace. Combining these two energies might seem paradoxical initially, but stoicism teaches us the beauty of balance.

”Just that you do the right thing. The rest doesn’t matter.” - Marcus Aurelius

Absorb the essence of this quote when tapping into the energy of the Eight of Wands. Embark on your journey with determination and focus. Strive for progress and growth, but remember, it doesn’t mean rushing or skipping steps. Keep your goals in sight and take swift, considered actions to reach them.

Our final card, surprisingly, is The Devil. This card carries the connotations of bondage, addiction, and materialism, principally. While it can be viewed as distasteful, The Devil can also serve as a warning - a reminder of our propensity for distraction by base desires. However, stoicism reminds us that we have control over our thoughts and actions, and we can liberate ourselves from our own shackles.

”You have power over your mind - not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.” - Marcus Aurelius

Channel this strength when confronting the power of The Devil. Acknowledge the chains of your limiting beliefs, your irrational fears or unhelpful habits, but remember you hold the key to liberate yourself.

Now, our journey with the Seven of Swords, Eight of Wands, and The Devil presents us with a distinctive blend of energies - cunning strategy, swift action, and conscious liberation. Grasp hold of these energies, engage your wisdom and prepare for an exciting ride towards self-discovery and growth.

Journal Prompt: Reflect on your own internal Seven of Swords, Eight of Wands, and The Devil. How are they manifesting in your life? What strategies can you devise to use these energies to your benefit and evolve from your current circumstances?