Wednesday October 2nd, 2024

Title: The Wisdom of Transition, Action and Moderation

Friends, it’s October already, the month of transformations and I am back here to share with you the cards of the day: Death, King of Wands, and Temperance. A rather interesting combination for this Wednesday, October 2nd.

We begin our reading with the Death card. Despite its morbid name, rest assured this actually represents profound transformation and meaningful transition. Embodying the very essence of the Stoic saying “Change is the only constant”, it encourages us to look deep within and embrace the inevitable changes in our lives. As Marcus Aurelius once observed:

“Time is like a river, the same water never stand still.”

Just as fallen leaves nourish the soil for the spring to come, the end of one phase nurtures the beginning of another. This card encourages us to release our fear, let go of what’s no longer serving us and make way for new beginnings. Reflect on what’s changing in your life and how you can welcome this change with wisdom and stoic fortitude.

Next up, we have the fiery King of Wands. This card is full of vibrant, dynamic energy and stands for visionary leadership, charisma, and creative ambition. The King reminds us of the indispensable truth of Stoic Philosophy, “Take action!“. Yet, this action should be guided by precise direction and intent. In the spirit of the words of Epictetus who said:

“First say to yourself what you would be; and then do what you have to do.”

Therefore, it’s not just about action, but aligned action. Take this wisdom and courage from the King of Wands and channel it into your pursuits. Consider where you need to put your energy, adopt confidence in your decisions and action them courageously.

Completing our trilogy of wisdom is Temperance which, akin to the stoic principle of moderation, calls for balance and patience. It is the angel of synthesis, reminding us of the eloquent stoic wisdom, “Virtue is the golden mean between two vices”.

”What is to give light must endure burning.” – Viktor Frankl

Just as two opposite ingredients are harmonized to create a delightful dish, the Temperance encourages us to adeptly blend contrasting parts of our lives and create a harmonious and meaningful existence.

From today’s reading, may we learn to navigate the river of change with grace (Death), ignite our inner fire with aligned action (King of Wands), and strive to find the golden mean even in the midst of the most conflicting situations (Temperance).

Journaling Prompt: Reflect and journal about current transitions in your life. How can you embrace change with wisdom and grace? In what aspects of your life can you take bold, aligned action? Finally, identify elements in your day that seem opposing and consider ways to harmoniously unite them.