Tarot Reading: Tuesday, August 27th, 2024

King of Cups

”The measure of a man is what he does with power,” noted the stoic philosopher, Plato. The King of Cups exemplifies this understanding of power. He symbolizes emotional balance, compassion, and diplomatic leadership. The King of Cups does not let his emotions rule him, but instead, he appreciates them for what they are – indicators, not dictators, of his state of mind.

Emotions, to the stoic, are not bad or good, they are merely responses to our perception about the world. According to the stoic philosopher, Seneca, “We suffer more often in imagination than in reality.” Action item: try not to let your fears and worries control you. Take charge and ride the waves of your emotions like the King of Cups.

Wheel of Fortune

”Change is the only constant in life,” said Heraclitus, another ancient sage. The Wheel of Fortune aligns perfectly with this worldview. The wheel in the card symbolizes the cycle of life, the ups and downs, the unpredictability that is an intrinsic part of our existence.

The Wheel of Fortune encourages us to accept the flux and embrace the concept of impermanence. Remember, though the wheel may bring hardship at times, these too shall pass. And likewise, when the wheel is in your favor, savor these moments, but don’t cling to them. This is your clear action advice: remain centered in the ups and downs, and cultivate inner serenity.

Death

The Death card may seem alarming, but rest assured, it represents transformation and change, not a physical death. Marcus Aurelius, the renowned stoic emperor, wrote in his ‘Meditations’, “Loss is nothing else but change, and change is nature’s delight.”

The transformation symbolized by the Death card might be uncomfortable, but it is an essential part of growth and progress. Resist the human tendency to resist change. Embrace it, as it is part and parcel of being a living being in this vibrant world of ours. This week, allow old parts of you to fall away to make room for the new.

Journaling Prompt

Reflect on what these three cards might signify in your life right now. Where do you need to show more emotional maturity? How can you better accept the ups and downs of your life? What transformations may be waiting just around the corner for you? Remember, the challenges of today are the wisdom of tomorrow.