I was sitting on the floor, shuffling the deck to pull today’s card (when I’m doing my own readings, or pulling cards for posts, I like being on the floor—it gives me more space).
As I was shuffling, I was reflecting on some challenges I’ve been having. I said aloud, “I’m going to have hope and faith, and trust that things will work out,” and brought my attention back to the cards.
I fanned out the cards, facedown, and chose one: 6 of Swords—a card known as the “things will get better” card.
I smile, as I acknowledge the card as agreement with the words that came from my mouth.
The 6 of Swords, from the Robin Wood Tarot. One of my favorite depictions, due to the ferryman taking on the role of the unseen spiritual forces at work guiding and leading us during our times of transition.
When we receive the 6 of Swords, it does acknowledge going through some challenging times, which is symbolized by the choppy water on one side of the swan boat. This card says that we are going through a period of transition (the person in the boat on a journey) that will lead us to a calmer, tranquil place (the calm water on the other side of the boat).
What I especially like about this image, from the Robin Wood Tarot, is the ferryman. If you look closely, you will see that he is invisible. I see this as Spirit leading us, guiding us, watching out for us—especially when it seems that we are just drifting along.
The swords in the boat represent the challenges we have faced and overcome successfully, as the suit of Swords is the suit of challenges—of decision-making and problem-solving. The swords are all different, noting that we go through life (the water) facing different kinds of challenges along the way. Each one of these swords represents the knowledge we have gained from those challenges.
So, if you feel today that you are drifting through life, know that you are in a state of transition, and you will move through it. There are forces—both seen and unseen—that are working on your behalf.
life of HIMM 