warming up the engine...
Using the Victorian Romantic 4 of Wands, 5 of Wands, and Emperor…
10:2
Using book interps … turn each into a question and then answer them.
From The Illustrated Book of Tarot by Jane Lyle:
in the 4 of wands the stability of the four expresses itself in a fiery way. Since fire is an expansive element, this card represents a successful, and abundant harvest, and also signifies a well-earned rest.
Q: What gets you fired up?
A: Usually an AH-HA! moment will do it for me.
Q: Where in this card (VR 4 of Wands) do you see this “ah-ha” moment?
A: I feel it is on the smiling face of that lady in the crowd. The look on her face makes me think she has found something familiar on that stage. Something sought after for a while.
Q: If you could sum up what that lady is feeling in one word, what word would it be?
A: It would be
connection.
Q: Where in your life are you experiencing a “connection”?
A: Mostly in an understanding of my world and myself and the meaning I get from it.
From Gerd Ziegler’s Mirror of the Soul:
The circle is full. All contradictions and opposites come together and connect at the center. The harmony between male and female, active and passive has returned. The fire of creativity is kindled by this occurrence.
Q: How do you feel you have come full circle?
A: When experiencing loss (as an example), and having questions in regards to that loss. In seeking answers I’d hear/read others experiences in regards to loss, and realize I’m not the only one. Then finding that I’m not truly defined by such a loss and gaining some peace from that realization. That peace, in turn, provides an answer, an answer that satisfies. Thereby completing a small circle of thought.
Q: Has it always been that quick?
A: Not always, sometimes it takes me months, years, to realize an answer to a problem, and then to “test” it out, more time…it really is a process.
Q: How do you define creativity?
A: There was a time when I would imagine a true creative was one who could work well with their hands. Create wonderful works of art…and I still do, of course. But, now, I’m expanding on the word in regards to creative living and the true art of that. Still learning.
Q: Where do you find “harmony” in opposites?
A: Gerd Ziegler stated “male and female…active/passive” I guess you can also include “me and them” in that my harmony has come (at times) in recognizing the similarities within myself and others. We, as people, really are not as different or separate from each other as we may believe.
The following quote is in reference to the number 4…
From It’s All In Your Numbers by Kathleen Roquemore:
Self-discipline-one of the means of learning self-discipline is through work, and your path is largely that of work and service. It is time when you must learn to make yourself do what needs to be done, to be efficient and organized, to produce through service and self-control.
Q: In what manner do you “self-discipline”?
A: It could be as simple as replacing one bad habit with one good habit…like instead of leaving a dirty dish in the sink (oh, I’ll do it later), I will wash it up immediately until I no longer have to think of doing it. Another thing I notice about myself is how my mind just wanders off, I’m starting to catch myself in those moment and focus. Small baby steps, I know, but I have to start somewhere.
Q: How do you serve your community?
A: I suppose the most obvious manner is through work. Besides offering hair services, I do notice when people wish to talk, and then I listen. Share a story and maybe a laugh or two. Just very basic, simple stuff, and I notice people do appreciate.
You know after doing this step again, I feel like I’m really understanding what that VR 4 of Wands wants to express to me right now. I so enjoyed revisiting this sub-step.
10:3
Give an example of the 4 levels of meaning-physical, allegorical, moral, spiritual-for the following 2 cards. Feel free to use the meanings given in books.
1)
VR 5 of Wands
My interp:A fight is about to ensue (literal). The fact that all men present are wearing the same types of shoes signifies they are all from the same class of people (allegorical). So who is better suited to this conflict?
The intent of the man bearing his chest seems to want to intimidate, have the last word, but the older man holding the stick threatens bodily harm. Since the man with the open shirt has no defenses, it maybe better for him to avoid the confrontation all together (moral). Your powers of discernment are being tested, how far will you go, and can you think clearly enough (spiritual)?
Book Meanings:
From The Illustrated Book of Tarot by Jane Lyle:
(literal)
Views differ, arguments arise, and sparks fly.
(moral)
There is plenty of adrenalin around, and likely to be plenty of rows as well. However, none of this should be seen as damaging in retrospect; a finer product or set of ideas is being forged.
From Gerd Ziegler’s Mirror of the Soul:
(allegorical)
Because the free flow of energy is greatly restricted, it has begun to stagnate.
(moral)
This concentrated charge of energy strives vainly to find a possibility for expression.
VR Emperor
My interp:Sitting in a position of power (literal). This man’s stillness can denote a confidence and ability to plan the next move (allegorical). His Emperor’s leadership style seems well-suited to the task at hand, and regardless of outcome, he will do what is right (moral). Sustaining his power will depend on how well he is connected to his people (spiritual), and their needs.
Book Meanings:
From Gerd Ziegler’s Mirror of the Soul:
(moral)
The qualities of true leadership include humility and submission to the cosmic law, as well as dynamism and power.
(spiritual)
A deep understanding and a constant consideration of the will of the Whole are also necessary.
From The Illustrated Book of Tarot by Jane Lyle:
(allegorical)
When you draw the Emperor you may be on the verge of a promotion, or be in a position where others look to you for direction. In terms of career, The Emperor signifies that you prefer to be boss and are not a natural employee.
2)
VR 4 of Wands
My interp...People gathering to see a band play (literal). The good cheer on everyone’s faces indicates that all is right in the world for this one moment (allegorical). It is good to be open to these small moments of happiness, regardless of how long or little they last (moral). Being grateful for these little shows makes it easier to recognize these everyday miracles when they do happen (spiritual).
Book Meanings:
From The Illustrated Book of Tarot by Jane Lyle:
(allegorical)
The four of wands suggests moving into a new home, or even acquiring second home. A powerful sense of security is signified by this card
From Gerd Ziegler’s Mirror of the Soul:
(moral/spiritual)
Something beautiful is making its way into your relationships. You may notice it first as established conditions are called into question and discussed openly. Clarifying the old is a prerequisite for a new oneness, a new beginning.
I must admit that in choosing these book passages, I did note a sort of excitement and recognition which prompted me to pick them. When I started this exercise, I was somewhat sleepy, but by the end of 10:3, I was fully awake and now wired, lol! So all and all, enjoyed this step(10)very much.
10:4
In keeping my tarot journal which includes daily draws, I have seldom referred to tarot books, especially the last journal I kept. Reason is not so much arrogance as just “knowing” how the cards are speaking to me in reference to my day. It’s usually an “oh, yeah” sort of feel to them.
In any case, it will be refreshing to pull the card(s) at the end of my day and relate to book meanings. Lately I haven’t done all that many daily pulls, so this will be a great time to get back into it!
Will see what happens and report back at end of 21 ways adept.
Lastly, the scans provided have more than one card on each, but just pick out the VR 4 &5 of Wands and Emperor-much thanks,
squeak
EDITED TO ADD:
Feb.12 2009
Tarot of the Spirit
I just completed my 31st daily throw and am very pleased with the results. I admit there were a couple of days when I was scratching my head wondering what the book interp was trying to tell me about my day. But the rest of the time, on this first month was/is a revelation. The funny thing is that on these throws, which I did at the end of my day, everyday, many times the card was telling me about one single aspect of my day, or a particular thought that struck me at a certain point, or even a daily throw that was about what I had seen on TV in the morning, and the thoughts coming from it. This month really opened my eyes, and I'm glad I tried again. I found it very rewarding
March 16 2009
Victorian Romantic
I finished and found that as I reached the end of the month with this deck...what the book interp was saying was not matching what actually happened during my day. Also, things that I thought rather significant were completely ignored, lol, oh well.
BUT- I really love this little companion book, because everything is so thoughtfully written and done. It is as beautiful as the deck. One part of me liked it when I had no clue what the cards were about, and when I read the cards...it was such a revelation. There were details in some cards I never saw before. The eagle at the feet of the Queen of Cups, how well-dressed the man is in the 10 of pents, the little child on the 5 of swords egging on the other child to fight with the 3rd...I thought they were all working in concert, and both Lovers cards--I didn't know it was suppose to be Baccus or the others, Beatrice and Dante. So I really did enjoy 'finding' out the intended meaning of these card. Thank you, Jewel, for telling me to purchase the book, because I didn't think I could until I found Baba's website. I'm glad I did!