Sunday October 13th, 2024
- October 13, 2024

A Stoic Tarot Reading for Sunday, October 13th, 2024
Sometimes our spiritual journey takes us through periods of struggle and introspection. The cards we examine today hint towards the inevitability of challenges but they also reveal the starting points of new opportunities and the strength within us to stand our ground with courage.
Our first card, the Nine of Wands, is a symbol of resilience. Classically, those who draw this card are in the midst of struggle but show tremendous perseverance. Marcus Aurelius once said:
“The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts.”
Remember that our present struggles do not define us. It is in our response and our continued striving where we truly begin to see who we are. Reflect on your recent difficulties. Have they shaped you into a stronger person? I encourage you to see this as an opportunity for growth.
Next, we have the Ace of Pentacles, a beacon of new beginnings and opportunities. This card is akin to a seed holding vast potential. As stoic philosopher Seneca beautifully put:
“Every new beginning comes from some other beginning’s end.”
In the wake of struggle, new doors may begin to open, promising fresh starts and possibly vast prosperity. It may seem difficult now, but hold on to those opportunities—tend to them like a gardener would to a young sapling. This may require patience and trust at this time, values that align beautifully with stoic philosophies.
Finally, we have the Knight of Swords in our reading. This card is a representation of bravery, exuding a sense of eagerness to go forth into the world, to experience, nevertheless, understanding the importance of pacing oneself. Epictetus helps us understand this balance:
“First say to yourself what you would be; and then do what you have to do.”
As we stand ready to seize the opportunities revealed by the Ace of Pentacles, we must remember to balance our eagerness with forethought. Rather than charging headlong into situations, taking a measured approach can be more beneficial in the long term.
Upon analyzing these cards, our advice seems clear. Find strength and growth in your struggles, seek opportunity where possible, and approach these opportunities with a balance of enthusiasm and thoughtfulness. This guidance distinctly mirrors the stoic values of resilience, opportunity-seeking, and measured response.
Journal Prompt
For this week’s reflection, dare to ask yourself: What struggles have I recently overcome and how have they helped me grow? What new opportunities do I currently see, and how can I approach them in a stoic way?