Stoic Saturday Tarot - August 31st, 2024

Good day, and welcome to your Saturday Stoic Tarot reading, where we weave the wisdom of Stoicism with the guidance of Tarot. Today, we explore the themes of Heartbreak, Leadership, and Authority, reflected in our three card spread: Three of Swords, King of Wands, and The Emperor.

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We begin our journey with the Three of Swords, a card often associated with heartbreak and sorrow. Classical depictions of this card illustrate a heart pierced by three swords, symbolizing mental anguish and emotional pain. But remember, as the Stoics teach us,

“Pain is neither unbearable nor unending, if you bear in mind that it has its limits, and if you add nothing to it in imagination.” - Marcus Aurelius.

This implies that discomfort and pain are subjective, formed more by our perception than by objective reality. What are you holding on that’s causing unnecessary pain? Perhaps it’s a resentment, a heartbreak, or a loss you need to grieve. The Three of Swords asks you to face these feelings, understand them, and let them go, inviting healing and clarity.

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We shift from the mournful tones of the Three of Swords to the fiery vitality of the King of Wands. The King of Wands is a leader, a visionary, a passionate character who inspires those he encounters. However, Epictetus reminds us,

“Don’t explain your philosophy. Embody it.” - Epictetus.

Immersed in the flame of the Wands, you’re urged to take the mantle of leadership. But not just through words; instead, express your leadership through actions and virtues. Are you leading by example? Are you displaying passion, determination, and resilience in the face of difficulties? That’s what the King of Wands embodies. Embody your values and inspire those who witness your life.

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Lastly, we arrive at the The Emperor, a symbol of authority, structure, stability, and establishment. The Emperor urges us to lay down our rules and create order in our world. It’s about assuming control over your life, but with the wisdom that control is not complete nor absolute. Stoicism teaches,

“The chief task in life is simply this: to identify and separate matters so that I can say clearly to myself which are externals not under my control, and which have to do with the choices I actually control.” - Epictetus.

The wisdom of The Emperor lies in understanding that control lies within us - our reactions, our thoughts, our perceptions. You can’t control every external, but you can manage how you perceive and react to them. Rule your inner world with discipline and determination - that’s the true authority the Emperor reminds us to claim.

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A powerful spread indeed; from navigating pain with the Three of Swords, displaying assertive leadership with the King of Wands, to wielding mindful authority with The Emperor.

Now, let’s close with a Stoic journaling prompt for further self-exploration and reflection:

Consider an area of personal pain, heartbreak or loss that you haven’t entirely made peace with. What stoic knowledge can you apply to understand and ease this pain? Reflect on your personal leadership style. How can you lead by example, embodying your philosophy rather than just talking about it? Lastly, pinpoint an area of your life where you need to regain control. How can the principles of Stoicism guide this endeavor?

Be still, reflect, and let Stoic wisdom guide you towards healing, leadership, and mindful control. Until next time, fare thee well.