I used to view this six as a forced journey or exile and a card of great sadness. Now I see it as 'enough and moving on'. I have made a few such journeys in my life and there may be a tinge of regret but it is commingled with immense relief. Knowing that I've done all I can and there is nothing more that can be done brings great peace. While this card speaks of journey into the unknown when I look back at my 'leavings' they have mostly led to better things. Where major new departures are concerned push factors may be more important than pull.
I am still reaping the rewards of last week's 'hound search'. The image below by the wonderful illustrator Dorothy Lathrop reminds me of the six and my whippet fellow travellers.
Not I, nor anyone else can travel that road for you.
You must travel it by yourself.
It is not far. It is within reach.
Perhaps you have been on it since you were born, and did not know.
Perhaps it is everywhere - on water and land
Walt Whitman, 1819-1892
Some of Lathrop's illustrations are quite tarotesque. In this image search strength and the tower jump out at me
Thank you for sharing Lanthrop's illustrations! I've never come across them before; they would make a lovely tarot or oracle!
ReplyDeleteThe Six of Swords makes me think of trying to find a 'tribe' individuals who have no interest in converting me to their way of thinking. I've left many groups who did, but in so doing, I've found other groups who are more accepting of individuality.
I think they would too :)
ReplyDeleteYes human beings can be quite unforgiving as regards difference. I think it speaks of fear more than anything else. One of gifts of getting older is being more discerning about which friendships and group memberships we do and don't want to cultivate. Independent thought very welcome here 🙂
"Perhaps you have been on it since you were born, and did not know"
ReplyDeleteProbably the epitath of most people.