#MayTag25

The Overburdened Donkey

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Today’s meditation was skipped.

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Eli Yamashita Animal Oracle's Ten of Wands and Little Otter's Mindful Kids Emotion CardsToday’s draw is the Ten of Wands, which is which is traditionally a representation of overwhelm, burnout, struggling under too much responsibility, and can indicate a need to do some prioritizing and delegation.

There’s merit to the proverb “Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.”, and I’m totally guilty of this.

I often pile too much onto my plate when it comes to tasks and responsibilities, believing that I’m not just capable but *more* than capable of taking it all on, “No problem!”

Yes. Problem.

Just because we may be capable of taking it all on doesn’t mean that we should. This is how overwhelm and burnout slip in, and eventually become a problem. [Interesting side note: Studies show that it takes more than times longer to recover from burnout than we usually expect it to take.]

The message of the Proud Parrot and the overburdened donkey in the Ten of Wands is a reminder not to let pride convince you to pile on too much for you to comfortably carry. Not “more than you can handle”, but too much for you to comfortably carry. There’s miles and miles of separation between the two.

DECK USED:  ELI YAMASHITA’S ANIMAL TAROT AND LITTLE OTTER’S MINDFUL KIDS EMOTION CARDS

#DiscordTarotholicsMay2025 Challenge
Prompt for May 31 : Grab a spread of your choice you’re curious about… and give it a go!

Eli Yamashita Animal Oracle's Ten of Wands and Little Otter's Mindful Kids Emotion Cards

In what ways am I ready to grow and change?

Statue – It’s time to accept that stagnancy may be well known and comfortable, but it is not your friend. Look at the person you wish to become, and in times when you are tempted to languish, return to this visage. Feed yourself what you need to grow towards that person, instead of languishing in moments of stagnancy that delay your growth and development.

What resistance do I feel toward making these changes?

Peuple de Samar – You are retreating instead of adapting, primarily because you are unable to protect yourself from outside influences while within your home. The erection of the building behind yours has created this issue, and that issue is becoming more clear and prevalent over time. This inability is making you sick, which in turn is making it harder to do the things that are healthy for yourself and those around you.

What will sustain me through this time of growth?

Bol Chantant en Cristal – Make sure that you are engaging with the world around you and those within it in a spirit of the positivity and optimism. This is a focus that you have been working to instill into your life over the past couple of years, and you need to lean into it a bit harder. Love and peace are the answer, not all that discordant crap your negative inner narrative keeps spouting at you.

What new possibilities await me?

Gardien – Introspection can increase your ability to better hone your limits and boundaries so that they can better fit who you are, who you want to be, and your needs. Don’t forget to look within, and to be honest with yourself not just about your flaws, but about your needs as well.

Other elements included in this reading:
Pressed Pansy Flowers for for Hearing the Heart More Clearly
Rose Quartz for Gentle Kindness to Self and Others
Desert Rose for Purification and drawing in Positive Energy

DECK USED: L’ORACLE DES ESPRITS DE LA NATURE

Daily Self Kindness

I wore a face mask outside today while working outside so that my allergies wouldn’t trigger full blown.   I still had a little bit of itchy eyes, but on the whole it was much better than it otherwise would have been.

Finding the Positive for May 28 – 30

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Le Tarot Villeneuve's Magician, Animal Tarot's Ten of Swords, Linestrider Tarot's Seven of Swords, and Little Otter's Mindful Kids Emotion Cards

May 28 – Mental Health Card of the Day

Today’s meditation was ten minutes long, and one of the #DailyCalm sessions in the @Calm app.

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Today’s draw is the Magician (le Bateleur) card, which is traditionally a representation of capability, potential, resourcefulness, action, and manifestation. This often translates into themes having to do with being in possession of all of the skills, abilities, and tools necessary to reach one’s goals and accomplish one’s ends. It’s about being capable and skilled, resourceful and gifted with what is needed to get the job done.

Shower thoughts this morning had me thinking about a magazine article I read recently that proposed that our perception of time speeds up when we lack novel and/or memorable experiences used to differentiate our hours and days. I thought this was a really strange theory, as in my observation  time actually seems to pass more quickly as we become more aware of our mortality and how little time we actually have left. I feel this might be why time feels like it gets faster as we get older.  We see our mortality more clearly and it causes us to value our time left more, and thus the perception becomes that it is flitting away too quickly.  Instead, in my experience, depression, pain, and/or misery  cause time to crawl by, while “time flies” when we’re having fun.

These thoughts (which are currently written all over the walls of my shower in shower crayon) make me think that, at least in part, it’s up to us how we perceive time.  The Magician, then encourages us to experiment by using the tools we’ve learned over years of experience to find what works best for us to create a sense of time we’ll be happy with, and fill that time with memorable moments.

DECK USED: LE TAROT VILLENEUVE

May 29 – Mental Health Card of the Day

Today’s meditation was skipped.

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Today’s draw is the Ten of Swords, which is traditionally a representation long journeys coming to an end, painful endings, lessons learned the hard way, deep wounds, and sometimes can indicate loss or betrayal.

Right, so… I am becoming/have become more susceptible to guilt. The thing is? I’m not entirely sure how this happened. I didn’t used to be susceptible to guilt, but somewhere along the line in the past decade or so it’s begun to actually have an influence.

Once upon a time, guilt trips by others just made me mad. They triggered my anger, probably as a defense mechanism, and that in turn turned off my ability to give a damn.

Maybe it’s because, as I search for understanding of my emotions and make progress on my healing past wounds, I’m more open and vulnerable now. That defense mechanism just doesn’t trigger like it used to, though, and i find myself becoming susceptible to guilt trips by those I care for where I wasn’t before.

I definitely am not a fan of this development, even if the defense mechanism is still there, just latent and only kicking in when I’ve reached the end of my tolerance and had enough.

The combination of the Guilty Dog and the Ten of Swords makes me wonder… is there a way to fine tune this defense mechanism so that I’m saying “stick a fork in me; I’m done” sooner? I would like to detach from guilt sooner… or is it just one of those things that goes part and parcel with allowing yourself to care about people?

DECK USED: ANIMAL TAROT

May 30 – Mental Health Card of the Day

Today’s meditation was thirteen minutes long, and was self guided meditation based off a #DailyCalm session I did recently titled “Anxiety” in the @Calm app. (Because I had a severe anxiety attack, and I needed a little help to reign things in.)

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Today’s draw is the Seven of Swords, which is traditionally a representation of strategic thinking, “sneaky shit”, or getting away with something. It can also often be about taking only what one can carry.

Disappointment seems to come far too easily these days. Whether it’s witnessing the truth in Harvey Danger’s “only stupid people are breeding” lyrics, or the decline of work ethic that took a sharper than normal dip during the pandemic (ref: the WPA in the 1930s and how it was preferred by the majority of society at the time over public assistance because it “maintained self-respect, reinforced the work ethic, and kept skills sharp”), and all around wide spread choices to act without consideration of consequences.

Do I sound like an old curmudgeon yet?

The other day I watched someone walk out of a store with a cart full of junk without paying, and yet when I reported this to security? I was the one looked at as an inconvenience.

I could see a policy of letting it go if it was say… food, or children’s clothes. But electronics and other clearly unnecessary luxury crap? C’mon.

The cards for today reflect this event I witnessed and the feelings expressed above that arose from it. These cards are a reminder to not let the morons, the entitled, and the corrupted get you down. Yes, they’re out there and they’re breeding. That just means it’s that much more important to seek out and connect with those that share your own values. They’re out there too, and can help in putting a little faith back in your perceptions of humanity as a whole.

DECK USED: THE LINESTRIDER TAROT

Seeking Inspiration

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Today’s meditation was skipped.

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The BirdQueen Tarot's Princess of Wands, Page of Wands, and Little Otter's Mindful Kids Emotion CardsToday’s draw is the Princess (Page) of Wands, which is traditionally a representation of a receptive omega energy, personality, or person in the area of one’s drive, willpower, determination, passions, values and principles, motivations, and inner spark.

This often translates into themes concerning starting over, as the journey through the suit of Wands brings you to a conclusion in the Ten of Wands with being overly burdened, and then the Page comes after with his burden set down and ready to begin again and do things better the second time around.

Did you know that octopi are extremely intelligent? They have the capacity to learn, remember faces, problem solve, process complex information, play, hold grudges, and have even definitively displayed vindictive behavior. They explore the world with an open and curious mind, showing us that even invertebrates of the sea can contain within them great cognitive potential.

The combination of the Page of Wands  and the Shy Octopus card is a reminder to make sure that you are approaching the world with openness and curiosity. Even those of us who are shy or reclusive need stimulation in our lives. Spread your wings. Seek out those things that trigger your interest and bring rise to your curiosity. So let yourself dive into these rabbit holes, and see where they lead. This is where the spice of life resides, and how we find those things that truly inspire us.

DECK USED:  BIRDQUEEN TAROT AND LITTLE OTTER’S MINDFUL KIDS EMOTION CARDS

#detarotjufmeitarotchallenge Tea With the Queens Challenge by @de_tarotjuf
Tea with the Queen of Pentacles : Grounding and Materials
Prompts for May 29 – 31

Oracle Reading with the Sisters of the Sea OracleWhat practical step can I take to realize my dreams?

The Next Part – Don’t allow yourself to get bogged down in stagnancy. There is a difference between the mindfulness of being in the present, or wallowing in unhealthy stillness. Make sure it is the former that you are partaking in, and let the latter go.

What do I value most in my life right now?

Destiny – One of the things that you value most in life at the moment is the fact that you don’t always have to be at the helm to get where you’re going. Some things are going to work out a certain way no matter what and you don’t have to fight to get them there, just keep moving.

How can I use my talents to help others?

The Storm – You are often a moment of stability in others’ storms. Your words and sometimes just your presence gives them the footing needed to keep going on their path in times when they might otherwise linger in the storm or its aftermath instead of moving onward.

Other elements included in this reading:
Aventurine Leaf Medallion for Harmony and Balance of the Heart
Shiva Shell Heart for Wisdom and Discernment
Seashells for a Greater Connection to the Sea’s Wisdom
Selenite for Purification and drawing in Positive Energy

DECK USED: SISTERS OF THE SEA ORACLE

Daily Self Kindness

I got both the air conditioners cleaned, set up, and running today.

Exploring Life… Together

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Today’s meditation was skipped.

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Little Otter's Mindful Kids Emotion Cards and Mythos Tarot's Ten of Cups - NaiadsToday’s draw is the Ten of Cups, which is traditionally a representation of feelings of completion, connection with others and harmony in those connections, and is often considered as the “happy family” card.

Curiosity is better when explored together with those in you rlife that make you happy and provide you with a sense of togetherness and well-being.

These people are your family. Not necessarily the family you’re born with, but the family that nurtures your growth and supports you and your aspirations.

This tribe of people are the ones to go exploring with, learn new things with, even fail with… for they are the ones who will support you through good times and bad, making even the worst of times just a little bit better.

The Ten of Cups and “family” aspect of the Naiads combined with the Curious Giraffe card is an encouragement to seek out and appreciate these people in your life. Take a moment to acknowledge their contribution to your life and happiness.

DECK USED:  MYTHOS TAROT

#detarotjufmeitarotchallenge Tea With the Queens Challenge by @de_tarotjuf
Tea with the Queen of Pentacles : Grounding and Materials
Prompts for May 25 – 28

Oracle Reading with the Tarot of the Hidden Realm and With Love Little Pig & Little Bunny Postcard SetWhat do I need to feel more centered?

Nine of Swords and I Can Disappear – Centering, for you, requires more assurance that when you make connections that you value, they aren’t just going to disappear from your life.

Remember that lasting friendships are hard to find, and focus on those you already have instead of worrying about newer ones that might come and go.

How can I better manage my finances?

Four of Wands and Saved the Last Piece – Saving creates stability for the things you want in your life. Take care not to lose sight of the fact that putting money away instead of spending it not only makes sure you have it when it’s needed, but also when you just want to treat yourself or others.

What are my goals in terms of material well-being?

Knight of Cups atop Six of Cups; Should We Do Nothing – True autonomy is the foundation of your material well-being goals. You desire the ability to do what you want when you want, without needing to worry that it will upset the scales of balance in your life. This freedom doesn’t necessarily mean exceptional monetary abundance, but rather a comfortable balance you are seeking to achieve.

How can I make my environment more pleasant?

Page of Cups and Muddy Boots – To make your environment more pleasant, work on learning how to enjoy life being a little bit messy. Mess and chaos don’t have to upset the apple cart of your emotions. The fact that they do indicates that you are gripping onto that habitual perfectionist mindset of  yours far too tightly.

Other elements included in this reading:
Foraged Silver Maple Key for Bouncing Back to Thrive
Foraged Cedar Tips for Protection Against Negative Influences
Gneiss Wishing Stone for Patience in Moments of Discomfort
Selenite for Purification and drawing in Positive Energy

DECK USED: TAROT OF THE HIDDEN REALM AND WITH LOVE LITTLE PIGGY AND LITTLE BUNNY POSTCARD SET

Daily Self Kindness

I managed to get some time to unwind and relax with Gideon once I finished orders.

True To Self

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Today’s meditation was skipped.

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Little Otter's Mindful Kids Emotion Cards and Parfait Tarot de Marseille's Three of CupsToday’s draw is the Three of Cups, Three of Cups, which in the Tarot de Marseille is traditionally a representation of friendships and family connections, harmonious relationships, connecting emotionally with others, and collaboration between those that are linked or alike not just in mind but also in heart.

Confession.  I have an extreme distaste for being around people who are drinking. I waffle between seeing them as unpredictable, moronic, or weak.  Sometimes? I see them as prey, which ties into the whole “weak” category, but I think is actually a kinda messed up perspective.

I don’t find hanging out while having a beer as entertainment, nor enjoy most gatherings where alcohol is served.  This isn’t to say that I don’t enjoy being invited (because I very much do!), and may even accept in a show of solidarity. It just means that even if I accept? I’ll probably hold myself apart, won’t be drinking myself, and may come off as “no fun” to others.

This is me being honest to myself and about who I am.  The message in today’s cards is an encouragement to do just that.  Be true to yourself. Even in the face of peer pressure and possibly disappointing others. Be authentic to who you are instead of trying to conform to other’s expectations. Those that are meant to really matter will accept you as you are, differences and all.

DECK USED:  PARFAIT TAROT DE MARSEILLE AND LITTLE OTTER’S MINDFUL KIDS EMOTION CARDS

#DiscordTarotholicsMay2025 Challenge
Prompt for May 26: What do you need to focus on for self-care for this month’s new moon?

Oracle Reading with the Resurrection OracleReading Summary: There is value in looking at things with fresh eyes (Inner Child) and taking them at face value instead of delving into the details (Face Value). Doing so is a turning point on trust for you (Turning Point), allowing you to be more open to trusting the universe is a whole instead of continuing to distrust everything.

Take Away: This New Moon’s self care needs to include putting your energy into being less pessimistic and distrustful. Not everything is a harbinger of doom or betrayal, and it’s okay to not predict every obstacle or problem before it lands on your doorstep. It’s okay to just enjoy, instead of picking things apart hunting for potential problems.  Give yourself permission to let go of your hyper-vigilance and just take things as they are.

Other elements included in this reading:
Lobelia Sprig for Removing Rose Colored Glasses
Fuchsia Flowers for Stability in the Face of External Disruption
Lace Agate for Increasing Inner Stability
Green Aventurine for Harmony and Balance of the Heart
(Stone above might actually be Garnierite with similar properties, but I won’t know for sure until I do some testing.)
Selenite for Purification and drawing in Positive Energy

DECK USED: RESURRECTION ORACLE

Daily Self Kindness

This is a catch up post, and I’m not entirely sure what the self kindness was for this day.

Shock and Awe

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Today’s meditation was ten minutes long, and one of the #DailyTrip sessions in the @Calm app.

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Little Otter's Mindful Kids Emotion Cards and The Spectrum Seeker's Tarot - Ace of Spoons, Ace of WandsToday’s draw is the Ace of Spoons (Wands), which is traditionally a representation of the seed of new beginnings in the area of one’s enthusiasm, drive, willpower, principles, determination, and inner spark. This often translates into themes that have to do with budding new interests and new passion projects.

Have you ever just said “fuk it” and done something with the full expectation that it could flop, only to be shocked when it goes well?

If not? You really need to play and experience more!  Fear of failure is holding you back, and doesn’t need to. Failure, after all, is how we learn… and that includes how we learn what we have a natural talent for, what things we like and enjoy, and what things that if we really want them we’ll have to really work at.

When you deprive yourself of experiences out of fear of failure, you miss out on all the happy surprises out there waiting for you to discover them.

The Ace of Spoons (Wands) card combined with the Shocked Starfish are here today to remind you to dive in, and encouragement to give life the opportunity to shock and awe you with new discoveries about the world around you and about yourself.

DECK USED:  THE SPECTRUM SEEKER’S TAROT

#DiscordTarotholicsMay2025 Challenge
Philosophical Question for May 14th : What is happiness?

Oracle Reading with the Nature's Healing OracleReading Summary: Happiness is life itself (all three card meanings end with “of life”), and the blending of our moments of anticipation and excitement (Coffee), with those moments of quiet calm (Olive Oil) where we can slow down and smell the roses (Chickpeas).

Take Away: These cards answer to what is happiness is that it’s all about experiencing the ups and downs of life.  I can’t remember where I read the theory, but there’s a theory out there that humanity can’t be happy long term unless there is struggle.  This theory proposes that in order to truly enjoy and appreciate happiness, we are only able to do so when experiencing it in short duration rather than as a constant.

I feel that this is what these cards are essentially trying to say.  We need variety in life.  Times of rest and relaxation, and times of effort, energy, anticipation, and excitement. Happiness, for humans, therefore, is in the bliss of temporary moments… both the exciting ones, and the quiet ones.

Other elements included in this reading:
Dried Rhododendron Leaf for Fostering Confidence
Ammonite for a Sense of Stability During Times of Change
Citrine for Energy Lift (easing the weight of heavy energies)
Clear Quartz for a boost of Intentional Energies

DECK USED: NATURE’S HEALING ORACLE

Daily Self Kindness

This is a catch up post, and I’m not entirely sure what the self kindness was for this day.