The Magician

Creativity - Inspiration - Life Force - Empowerment

The process of coming to terms with ones potential is the center of the Magician's meaning. Realizing your purpose and taking the steps needed to achieve that goal. Keeping a centered and open mind is the key. Intuitiveness, Imagination, & Ingenuity: All come from inspiration. Yet true inspiration comes when the mind is open and willing to be filled by what is to come. It is not a time to worry or doubt. Trust is imperative in order for what is about to come to come smoothly and work as it should through you.

The card is overflowing with symbols. The cloak of feathers or Tugen, reflecting the presence of raven knowledge or second sight, the four magical tools which lie on the stone table representing the four suits and also the potential available, and Stonehenge in the back drop representing an ability of travel between worlds to name a few. All whisper of the great ability available.

The Magician card calls one out. Asking for trust and willingness in allowing the inspiration and abilities within oneself to flow as it is meant to. To listen with an open mind to that which is calling and to use all the tools within ourselves to flourish in the manner and purpose we have been called to.

Card from The Druid Craft Tarot/ Carr-Gomm

The Oak Tree

The Oak tree has long been revered. It is said that the Druids would not meet unless an Oak tree was present also. It is symbolic of strength, wisdom, and personal growth. Its seed, the tiny acorn, when planted has the potential to grow into the massive Oak tree over time. This reference likewise shows how we ourselves can go from nothing to something more within time and patience.

The Oak holds with it the powers of protection, health, healing, and luck to name a few. Two oak twigs tied together with red twine in the manner that they form a cross and hung in the home, will ward off evil. Fires made of oak which are burned when one is ill is said to draw the illness out. And carrying an acorn in ones pocket can ward off illness or pains, preserve youth, and even bring luck.

Trees have always been a special friend to me. There is something about the greatness and wisdom they hold. To sit quietly beneath a large shade tree renders some of the most relaxing time I can find. The term tree hugger is often used in a fashion to make fun of one, yet I find this term quite flattering. If you have never truly hugged a tree try it sometime. You may be surprised at the feelings you experience.

I write of the Oak because of my relationship with one in particular. When we first moved to our property down in the southeast corner of the yard was a small sapling. Truly it looked more like a stick. When I first introduced myself, it seemed that possibly I may have to do away with it. It was unshapely and didn’t look to become much of anything. Yet still I tended it. I watered it and made sure that it was not mowed over. As it grew I groomed it as needed making sure it would gain the most strength it could and not waste unnecessary energy on its growth.

As the years passed it grew slowly. Today after 4 years it has grown to where I can no longer reach the top to prune if needed. A feeder of bird seed sits snuggly inside its branches almost hidden to give refuge to those who may need it. At its base is a circle of stones. Within the circle are lavender, rosemary and sage. Wild sunflowers and yarrow also grow beneath its shade. Occasionally I sprinkle corn around its perimeter for the animals that may come its way. On full moons an extra surprise I may place beneath it for the fairy that frequent. It has become a good friend to me.

It is here that I planted my first witch bottle when it was still a young tree. Asking it to watch over it and guard it. Frequently I go and spend time with it just as its presence brings joy to me. Technically I am told it is not on our property, however this makes no difference to me. Still I tend it as needed and cherish the relationship I have received from it. It has taught me much. Recently another young Oak near our pond was found. Likewise I have tended to it. However the first one is still my favorite.

Trust Yourself

There is a calmness that comes with the acceptance of yourself. A sense of peace and an ability to better handle the stresses and challenges that may come to you in regards to the difference you may have to others. I say this because, over the last year, this has probably been one of the biggest lessons I have learned.

My views and/or beliefs have always seemed to be somewhat different than those of the people who were around me most. I was careful not to vocalize them to openly as I did not want to alienate myself too much. However I soon learned that this was exactly what I was doing. I have always sought truth. By this I mean that if I questioned something, I investigated it further until I came to a conclusion which I could better understand or accept. This manner led me to discovering and believing views which were not as popular with those around me. In time it also led me to a place where I felt more at home and more at peace.

Accepting myself and my beliefs, trusting them for what they truly are, has completely opened my life to a whole new level. Of course I still have the moments when my actions or words may not meld as well with my surroundings. When those who are not knowledgeable or who choose to close their mind to any other perspective but their own, challenge me and where I choose to stand. This moments are not as stressful as in times past. The trust in what I have sought and what I have found has made it much easier.

Challenges will follow me throughout my life I am sure. And I greatly welcome them, as I do beleive that it is through such challenges that we grow and learn. How boring the world would be if every thing just ran smoothly. No questions to be asked or puzzles to be solved. This is what creates the adventure of life for us.

Blessings

Raelin

The Chariot

Triumph - Success - Mastery - Control - Journeys - Fame

A complete sense of control transcends from the picture of the Chariot. A firm grip on the reins of the horses that lead her, her staff clasped strongly in her hand, she is ready for anything that may come her way and she knows it. Her confidence and surety are evident in all things about her.

The black and white stallions which lead her to where it is she goes, are representative of the black and white or good and bad in all our lives. They work side by side , giving balance to her ride. Understanding that it will take an acknowledgement of both to assure the ride is smooth. Acting as two facets of the same mechanism, they work together rather than against. Her strong hold on the reins of both, show her ability to manage any unwanted forces that may come her way.

It is a control or management of ones self. Understanding the need for challenges and possible adversities to come our way in order that we may learn and grow to the point we are destined to achieve. Understanding the need also for the moments to be still and recognize and acknowledge the beauty and wisdom that is also part of the final picture.

It is a travel and/or growth that is gained through time. It is not achieved quickly or overnight. Yet once we are aware of the path and the stamina needed to take us to the final destination the ride will become smoother and more familiar. Finally leading us to that place we are to achieve.

Card from The Druid Craft Tarot/ Carr-Gomm