Sunday Tarot Reading - July 28th, 2024: From Loss to Stability

Greetings Stoics, Today’s tarot spread invites us to examine loss, security, and steady progression. Progression through staged self-awareness is an adventure and today’s pick brings this to light.

The first card drawn in our trio is the Five of Cups. This card, traditionally, symbolizes loss and grief, and brings to mind the quote by Epictetus:

“We should always be asking ourselves: ‘Is this something that is, or is not, in my control?”

The Five of Cups encourages us to look at what we’ve lost and grieve if necessary. It confirms feelings of disappointment and frustration related to past events. The key here is that it guides us to focus on what we can control—our reactions and the decisions we make moving forward. It prompts us to strive to accept our circumstances, especially those beyond our control, and imbibe the virtues embedded in the philosophy of stoicism.

The second card, the Four of Pentacles, is traditionally associated with the notion of security and control. Marcus Aurelius had a though-provoking quote that fits nicely with this card’s energy:

“Very little is needed to make a happy life; it is all within yourself, in your way of thinking”.

The Four of Pentacles nudges us towards appreciating the stability we have, no matter how small. It mirrors our desires to hold onto things for fear of losing them. But let’s think about how the truth in Aurelius’ words can guide us to a change in perspective. It compels us to realize that our happiness tends to reside less in what we have and more in our perception of life.

Our final card, the Knight of Pentacles, symbolizes routine, methodical actions and responsibility. It brings to mind the stoic doctrine that ”[…] our actions should accord with our nature”. The Knight of Pentacles is a symbol of steady progression – taking one step at a time to reach a more secure position. It advises us to remain dedicated to our cause, reminding us that the success we seek is built from everyday efforts.

Altogether, the tarot guides us from the challenges of loss and uncertainty towards a path that finds value, stability, and satisfaction in our everyday ventures. It beckons us to balance our heart and mind, engaging them in the journey of self-improvement and natural occurrence of events.

Journaling Prompt:

“In the context of the Five of Cups, what loss have you recently experienced and how are you dealing with it? How does the Four of Pentacles resonate with your current stability? Lastly, in the face of the Knight of Pentacles, what daily routines can you establish to build towards your ultimate goal?”