Animal Tarot Time: THE HERMIT

For this series, I am exploring the choices of animals made by various deck creators to correspond to traditional Tarot cards. My initial goal is to get through the Major Arcana using cards from seven different decks:

• Animal Tarot Cards by Doreen Virtue and Radleigh Valentine (Hay House)
• The Animal Totem Tarot by Leeza Robertson; illustrated by Eugene Smith (Llewellyn Publications)
• The Animal Wisdom Tarot by Dawn Brunke; illustrated by Ola Liola (CICO Books)
• The Animal-Wise Tarot by Ted Andrews (Dragonhawk Publishing)
• The Animals Divine Tarot by Lisa Hunt (Llewellyn Worldwide)
• The Animism Tarot by Joanna Cheung (Self-Published)
• Tarot of the Animal Lords with artwork by Angelo Giannini (Lo Scarabeo)

To read my previous posts in this series, enter “Animal Tarot Time” in the search field on the main page of the blog or scroll down and click on Animal Tarot Time under CATEGORIES.

Today I’m exploring THE HERMIT (Key 9) in my animal-themed decks.

 

Animal Tarot Cards by Doreen Virtue and Radleigh Valentine (Hay House)

THE HERMIT / FIREFLY 

“Take time for contemplation – to retreat and go within. 
Be a beacon for others on their path to spiritual enlightenment.”

When we think of a hermit, we think of someone who hides somewhere and avoids contact with other people. In my experience, THE HERMIT card can represent a need to do exactly that, at least for a time. However, sometimes we forget that the image on the card (in traditional decks at least) depicts The Hermit holding a lantern up as if to illuminate the path. One standard interpretation of this card refers to being a guide who shows others the way. The creators of Animal Tarot Cards write, “And just as the seeker is never alone, our fireflies have gathered in great number in order to show you just how magical life can be!”

The Animal Totem Tarot by Leeza Robertson; illustrated by Eugene Smith (Llewellyn Publications)

THE HERMIT /  MANTIS

Do you like being alone? If no, why not? 

What does “standing in one’s own light” mean to you? 
Do you allow yourself the space and time you need to make decisions with certainty? 

In The Animal Totem Tarot, The Hermit (Mantis) stands in the light, holding the ultimate “lamp” – the sun -- between his antennae. This image doesn’t seem to allude to the need for isolation or solitude at all, rather focusing on shining a bright light. In the deck guidebook, however, the creator of this deck does emphasize that “it’s okay to have space between yourself and your current problem . . . as a way of allowing some time and space to help align yourself with the solution you need.” Having done that, we are then encouraged to emerge into the light or to actually provide the light that others may need to find their way.

The Animal Wisdom Tarot by Dawn Brunke; illustrated by Ola Liola (CICO Books)

THE HERMIT / OWL / Keeper of the Light
(Solitude, Introspection, Enlightenment, Wisdom)

It’s common knowledge that an owl’s night vision is quite good, which makes this mysterious creature a fine choice to guide us through the dark. I can also see the owl as representing solitude and contemplation as it sits quietly in a tree, hidden from view. The creator of The Animal Wisdom Tarot encourages us to “take time to refresh and renew your inner self, so you may return to the world enlightened, shining as a beacon for others.”

The Animal-Wise Tarot by Ted Andrews (Dragonhawk Publishing)

THE HERMIT / OWL 
(Silent Wisdom, Vision, and Guidance) 

Ted Andrews notes several things that the owl can represent for us:

* Owls fly silently, teaching us to trust our instincts and silent impressions.

* Owls are creatures of the night, perhaps symbolizing the darkness within, where great secrets and great treasures are hidden. We may choose to access these secrets and treasures through dreams.

* Owls have keen sight and hearing, encouraging us to pay attention to undercurrents and subtleties.

The Animals Divine Tarot by Lisa Hunt (Llewellyn Worldwide)

THE HERMIT / Cernunnos: Celtic 
(time to reflect, contemplation, solitude) 

Rather than choosing a single animal for this card, Lisa Hunt chooses the Celtic god Cernunnos, who is shown accompanied by all kinds of forest animals. Each animal carries its own symbolism. “At this stage of the journey,” Hunt writes, “it is important to take the time to engage in quiet reflection.”

The Animism Tarot by Joanna Cheung (Self-Published)

THE HERMIT / THE RED PANDA
(peace, knowledge, contemplation, solitude, discovery, adaption)

A quick internet search reveals that red pandas are known to be “difficult to observe in the wild” and are solitary and territorial. People in central Bhutan consider red pandas to be reincarnations of Buddhist monks. The red panda’s qualifications to serve as The Hermit seem pretty solid, although we do not get the idea that this creature is going to “light the way” for anyone.

Tarot of the Animal Lords with artwork by Angelo Giannini (Lo Scarabeo)

THE HERMIT / BLACK BEAR
(wisdom, spiritual search, abandonment, solitude, hidden enemies) 

Although this deck is admittedly “quirky,” its portrayal of The Hermit is true to traditional Tarot, even though it depicts a black bear instead of a human being. The bear, clothed in hermit-style robes, holds a lantern aloft and gazes at the path ahead. I want to comment on one particular keyword provided by this deck: “abandonment.” At first, this seemed odd, but after just a little bit of thought, I can see that The Hermit may signal a need to “abandon” a busy, confusing life (or situation) for a time, and I can also see that to other people, it might seem that The Hermit is “abandoning” them by going into seclusion. Something to keep in mind when interpreting this card in a reading.

To summarize, we have

Firefly – 1
Mantis – 1
Owl – 2
Red Panda – 1
Cernunnos – 1
Black Bear – 1

Of these, I tend to favor the Owl as The Hermit. I like the idea of it being able to guide us in the darkness because of its superior senses and the fact that it does tend to be hidden from us much of the time. I do kind of like the idea of the Black Bear, given that bears hibernate in caves on a regular basis, although I can’t quite picture a bear guiding anyone. What do you think?

 

Animal Tarot Time: THE WHEEL OF FORTUNE

For this series, I am exploring the choices of animals made by various deck creators to correspond to traditional Tarot cards. My initial goal is to get through the Major Arcana using cards from seven different decks:

• Animal Tarot Cards by Doreen Virtue and Radleigh Valentine (Hay House)
• The Animal Totem Tarot by Leeza Robertson; illustrated by Eugene Smith (Llewellyn Publications)
• The Animal Wisdom Tarot by Dawn Brunke; illustrated by Ola Liola (CICO Books)
• The Animal-Wise Tarot by Ted Andrews (Dragonhawk Publishing)
• The Animals Divine Tarot by Lisa Hunt (Llewellyn Worldwide)
• The Animism Tarot by Joanna Cheung (Self-Published)
• Tarot of the Animal Lords with artwork by Angelo Giannini (Lo Scarabeo)

To read my previous posts in this series, enter “Animal Tarot Time” in the search field on the main page of the blog or scroll down and click on Animal Tarot Time under CATEGORIES.

Animal Tarot Cards by Doreen Virtue and Radleigh Valentine (Hay House)

REINDEER (CARIBOU)

“Success through taking action. Opportunity and blessings. 

Travel or modes of transportation. Forward movement. New directions.”

The creators of this deck point out that we traditionally associate reindeer with Santa Claus, which reinforces the idea of this creature representing prosperity or change in a positive direction. It also makes sense to have reindeer represent the movement and transportation. As the authors state, the reindeer and caribou are basically the same animal, with the primary difference being domestication.

In tarot, the Wheel of Fortune is in constant motion, around and around, up and down, never standing still.

The Animal Totem Tarot by Leeza Robertson; illustrated by Eugene Smith (Llewellyn Publications)

LADY BUG

“How do you deal with change? Does planning for success 
seem foolish to you? What area of your life needs the most luck?”

The creators of this deck note that “Lady Bugs have long been associated with luck and good fortune.” Interestingly, Lady Bugs can be different colors. Most are red (connected to the first or root chakra and the material world). Some are orange, connecting to the second or sacral chakra, dealing with creative emotional energy. A yellow Lady Bug would be connected to the third or solar plexus chakra, the energy center of action or doing. Finally, a pink Lady Bug is associated with the fourth or heart chakra, urging you to “just allow what is happening to happen.”

The Animal Wisdom Tarot by Dawn Brunke; illustrated by Ola Liola (CICO Books)

SPIDER

Sacred Spinner (Fate, Karma, Luck, Cycles, Change)

I really like the way the creators of this deck placed a spider in a web that extends to the edges of a wheel. Think of how a spider just keeps spinning, and if the web is damaged or destroyed, the spider simply starts again. With this card we are encouraged to maintain “long-range views and an expanded perspective to find stability and truth in the midst of change.” When we sit still and center ourselves, we can watch life’s drama spin around us without being dragged up and down, around and around.

The Animal-Wise Tarot by Ted Andrews (Dragonhawk Publishing)

BEAR

Heeding Inner Voice and Cycles

Ted Andrews offers us the Bear on the Wheel of Fortune card in his Animal Wise Tarot. As Andrews notes, bears “teach us that there is a rhythm and flow to everything, and when we align with it, we are much less frustrated and more successful.” Certainly we see this as we observe the hibernation habits of bears. They adapt to each new cycle as the wheel of the year turns.

The Animals Divine Tarot by Lisa Hunt (Llewellyn Worldwide)

ALL ANIMALS

cycle of change, the opportunity for growth due to change in fortune

Lisa Hunt neatly sidesteps any arguments over “which animal” should represent this card by stating that The Wheel represents “All Animals.” She depicts the animals “rotating together in a confluence of elements,” incorporating symbolism for Fire, Water, Air, and Earth. With the animals as our guides and teachers, be can have a glimpse into the ways nature balances itself and become more active participants in the rhythm of life. From small to large, each creature shown on The Wheel has something valuable to share with us, if we will only pay attention.

The Animism Tarot by Joanna Cheung (Self-Published)

ORB WEAVER SPIDER

fate, wisdom, rebirth, balance, creativity, design

Here we see the “weaver of time and fate.” Every thread has a destination. Every connection has a purpose. Joanna Cheung echoes the comments I wrote above concerning what happens when a spider’s web is damaged or destroyed, writing “threads that fall can rise up again, and though some may come undone, they can be rebuilt once more, better and stronger than ever before.”

Tarot of the Animal Lords with artwork by Angelo Giannini (Lo Scarabeo)

BUTTERFLY

the natural cycle of things, fortune, love

A person with a butterfly’s head and wings flutters in the air next to a tree on which we see leaves, eggs, and caterpillars. In this way, this deck points to the butterfly as a symbol of the “natural cycle of things.” As we know, the butterfly follows a consistent pattern in its development, from egg to larva to pupa to adult. Similarly, we may go through stages of growth in our lives as we mature and gain understanding and wisdom.

TO SUMMARIZE we have:

Reindeer (Caribou) – 1
Lady Bug – 1
Spider – 2
Bear – 1
Butterfly – 1
All Animals – 1

I confess I’m quite partial to the Spider for The Wheel of Fortune card. What do you think?

Animal Tarot Time: JUSTICE

For this series, I am exploring the choices of animals made by various deck creators to correspond to traditional Tarot cards. My initial goal is to get through the Major Arcana using cards from seven different decks:

• Animal Tarot Cards by Doreen Virtue and Radleigh Valentine (Hay House)
• The Animal Totem Tarot by Leeza Robertson; illustrated by Eugene Smith (Llewellyn Publications)
• The Animal Wisdom Tarot by Dawn Brunke; illustrated by Ola Liola (CICO Books)
• The Animal-Wise Tarot by Ted Andrews (Dragonhawk Publishing)
• The Animals Divine Tarot by Lisa Hunt (Llewellyn Worldwide)
• The Animism Tarot by Joanna Cheung (Self-Published)
• Tarot of the Animal Lords with artwork by Angelo Giannini (Lo Scarabeo)

To read my previous posts in this series, enter “Animal Tarot Time” in the search field on the main page of the blog or scroll down and click on Animal Tarot Time under CATEGORIES.

As many of you know, the numbering of the Justice and Strength cards in the Tarot varies, depending on which deck you are using. For this post, I will be viewing Justice as Trump 8. Let’s look at how JUSTICE is portrayed in seven different animal decks.

Animal Tarot Cards by Doreen Virtue and Radleigh Valentine (Hay House)

ELEPHANT

(“Fair decisions will be made after all the evidence is reviewed impartially. 

Have compassion for others and try to see all side of a disagreement.”)

In this deck, the Elephant has been chosen to represent standing up for what we believe in as well as fighting for equality and fairness for all. To see this card in a reading suggests that if we are involved in a legal proceeding or situation where a resolution is required, we can be assured that a just decision will be made. Elephants symbolize strength, wisdom, longevity, and prosperity across a wide range of cultures and spiritual systems. It is also seen by many as a symbol of the qualities required for good government, such as dignity, intelligence, and prudence.

The Animal Totem Tarot by Leeza Robertson; illustrated by Eugene Smith (Llewellyn Publications)

CRANE

(“Balance is not just about being even. Balance is about finding the 

middle path or making it back to one’s center.”)

As you can see, in this deck, Justice is Trump 11. However, to be consistent with the animal symbolism, I will include it here. The red-capped Crane on this card is “standing his ground, wanting others to know that he cannot be swayed from his own mind.” Even as he does this, he keeps his emotions grounded and calm in order to continue to seek a balanced outcome, “a solution for the good of all and harm to none.” Like the Elephant (see description above), the Crane commonly symbolizes wisdom, fidelity, and longevity. Some cultures view the bird negatively (for example, in India, where it represents treachery).

The Animal Wisdom Tarot by Dawn Brunke; illustrated by Ola Liola (CICO Books)

ELEPHANT

(Bearer of Justice)

“Play fair, love true, live in harmony.”

As you can see, here we have another deck that assigns the number 11 to Justice. Keynotes for this card in this deck are “Balance, Truth, Honor, Integrity.” One argument for equating Justice (as key 11) with “Balance” is that the number 11 card is at the center of the Major Arcana, which consists of 21 Keys (plus The Fool, which is number Zero). Dawn Brunke writes that Justice suggests that “whatever is imbalanced will come to light. This could indicate legal issues, arbitration, or tough times if we ignore the call.” Brunke also notes that this card “advocates alignment between personal and sacred justice…”

The Animal-Wise Tarot by Ted Andrews (Dragonhawk Publishing)

ELEPHANT

“Ancient Powers of Justice at Work”

Another vote for Justice as Key 11. Oh well! In addition to the qualities I have already mentioned that are associated with the Elephant, Ted Andrews mentions the way a herd of elephants demonstrates “the ideals of true society.” He points to the Elephant’s trunk and its acute sense of small. He writes, “Those for whom Elephant has appeared would do well not to trust what they see, but what smells right – especially where important decisions are concerned.”

The Animals Divine Tarot by Lisa Hunt (Llewellyn Worldwide)

JUSTICE / Maat

“judgement, balance, legalities, making decisions”

Well, obviously I should have done a quick check of these decks before going with The Animal Tarot Cards designation of Justice as Key 8. It’s Key 11 in The Animals Divine Tarot, and is represented (quite understandably) by Ma’at, the Egyptian goddess of truth and justice. She is not an animal, of course, but the animal standing beside her on the card is an Ostrich. An ostrich feather was the attribute of Ma’at, and it was the ostrich’s feather against which the hearts of the dead were weighed to ascertain if they were heavy with sin. One reason for using an ostrich feather was that the feathers are of even length. Also, it didn’t hurt that the Ostrich was (and is) Africa’s largest bird. As with the Elephant, it appears that size does matter when it comes to animals representing the Justice card.

The Animism Tarot by Joanna Cheung (Self-Published)

CHIMPANZEE

adaption, objectiveness, awareness, 

compassion, honour, understanding

Of course, Justice is Key 11 in this deck as well. (I am no longer surprised, if I ever was.) The Chimpanzee is an interesting animal to choose for this card. Instead of balanced scales, we see what appear to be two identical chimpanzees facing each other, touching palms. The image does suggest the idea of balance, equal sides, cooperation, and harmony. Joanna Cheung writes that this card can be about “a time to right wrongs, a time for change and balance.”

Tarot of the Animal Lords with artwork by Angelo Giannini (Lo Scarabeo)

BARN OWL

“agreement, order; lack of freedom, prejudices and misconduct”

As in the Animal Tarot Cards deck, Justice is Key 8 in Lo Scarabeo’s Tarot of the Animal Lords. A female Barn Owl is featured on the card, holding scales in one hand and a sword in the other. This pose mimics the Rider-Waite-Smith card in that respect. The Owl, as most of us know, can symbolize wisdom and knowledge or it can have a sinister, even ferocious nature, as it did in many ancient cultures. Its association with intelligence comes from the Athenians, who made the Owl sacred to their goddess of wisdom and learning.

To summarize, we have:
Elephant – 3
Crane – 1
Ma’at (Ostrich) – 1
Chimpanzee -- 1
Barn Owl – 1

As I thought about the concept of “justice” in the animal world, I decided to do a quick search on line to see what I could find. I came across this _fascinating article_.

The article provides several interesting examples of how various animals have displayed “moral behavior, that they can be compassionate, empathic, altruistic, and fair.” I do lean towards the Elephant for the Justice card, but would love to hear what you think! Here are some photos I have taken of elephants on my travels.

Animal Tarot Time: The Chariot

For this series, I am exploring the choices of animals made by various deck creators to correspond to traditional Tarot cards. My initial goal is to get through the Major Arcana using cards from seven different decks:

• Animal Tarot Cards by Doreen Virtue and Radleigh Valentine (Hay House)
• The Animal Totem Tarot by Leeza Robertson; illustrated by Eugene Smith (Llewellyn Publications)
• The Animal Wisdom Tarot by Dawn Brunke; illustrated by Ola Liola (CICO Books)
• The Animal-Wise Tarot by Ted Andrews (Dragonhawk Publishing)
• The Animals Divine Tarot by Lisa Hunt (Llewellyn Worldwide)
• The Animism Tarot by Joanna Cheung (Self-Published)
• Tarot of the Animal Lords with artwork by Angelo Giannini (Lo Scarabeo)

To read my previous posts in this series, enter “Animal Tarot Time” in the search field on the main page of the blog or scroll down and click on Animal Tarot Time under CATEGORIES.

Let’s look at how THE CHARIOT is portrayed in seven different animal decks.

Animal Tarot Cards by Doreen Virtue and Radleigh Valentine (Hay House)

ARABIAN HORSE

You’ve earned the rewards and recognition you’re receiving.

In this deck, the Arabian Horse is meant to represent “the balance of strength and intellect,” and like The Chariot in traditional decks, success depends on the ability of the driver of the chariot to guide opposing forces or energies forward together in the same direction. The image on this card does not show opposing energies pulling against each other. Rather, we are meant to consider the Arabian horses themselves as symbols of grace, intelligence, passion, and confidence.

The Animal Totem Tarot by Leeza Robertson; illustrated by Eugene Smith (Llewellyn Publications)

ORCA

You have to pay just as much attention to the energy that creates 

your movement, as the direction of the movement itself.

To capture the essence of The Chariot, this deck describes the manner in which Orcas (Killer Whales) hunt. The pack travels together, using speed, diving techniques, and tail movements to master their environment and capture their prey. They not only know which direction to go, but the types of movement and behavior to use to achieve their goal. With each movement, ripples are created that affect the surrounding environment and everything in it.

The Animal Wisdom Tarot by Dawn Brunke; illustrated by Ola Liola (CICO Books)

HORSE: 

Let go – become master of your vehicle.

Keynotes for this card in this deck are “Power, Balance, Alignment, Control.” The equine association with the traditional Chariot card is picked up in this deck, with the addition of wings. The message is similar to the traditional Strength card in that we are encouraged to control our direction in life with calm focus rather than trying to force or fight our way along. Brunke writes: “We are the vehicle that carries our soul through life. Nurture courage, self-authority, and poise to lead yourself.” We are encouraged to “align divergent energies and direct movement through inner balance.”

The Animal-Wise Tarot by Ted Andrews (Dragonhawk Publishing)

HORSE:

Movement and Balance

Here again we see the importance of both movement and balance in The Chariot. We may be very good at “movement” but if that movement is undisciplined, out-of-control, and fraught with inner discord, we are not likely to get where we want to go. Harnessing and guiding our raw power and passion is necessary in order to go in a specific direction. The idea of balance is further represented by the fact that horses have four legs, giving them stability and balance in their movements.

The Animals Divine Tarot by Lisa Hunt (Llewellyn Worldwide)

THE CHARIOT / FREYA: 

departure, experiencing the world, deliberate actions

In this deck, The Chariot is represented by the Norse goddess Freya riding a golden boar, an emblem of her power. She is assisted by an emerging lynx, whose exceptional eyesight guides her. Freya’s beauty, determination, and powerful spirit are, of course, legendary. Her energy inspires us to find a purpose in our actions and to pursue that purpose as we continue on the path we have chosen.

The Animism Tarot by Joanna Cheung (Self-Published)

HORSE: 

strength, control, resilience, intuition, determination, victory

Like others, this deck chooses the Horse to represent The Chariot card. The image shows a lavender-gray horse flying in a deep purple, starry sky as a crescent moon shines above. Cheung’s keywords reinforce the message we associate with The Chariot. Rather than trying to rephrase her poetic description, I will quote part of it here: The horse “is the journey: the road travelled and the obstacles ahead. He is the will, willing himself to triumph.”

Tarot of the Animal Lords with artwork by Angelo Giannini (Lo Scarabeo)

SWAN and CROWNED CRANE:

victory, success, huge ambitions, sudden loss

As I have come to expect, this deck gets the prize for the most interesting and unexpected imagery for The Chariot. Symbolically, swans commonly symbolize peace, tranquility, loyalty, strength, beauty, grace, and love. Cranes are viewed as symbols of vigilance, longevity, wisdom, fidelity, and honor. These are the qualities, then, that can help us reach our destination.

To summarize, we have:
Horse – 4
Orca – 1
Swan and Crane – 1
Boar, Lynx (Freya) – 1

I’m not surprised to see the Horse take the lead in this group of animals. It is interesting to think of myself as a horse, steering myself, rather than someone driving a chariot pulled by horses. I like the image of the pack of orcas working in concert towards a goal. Freya riding her boar works pretty well for me. The swan and crane are, well, fun. Which one is your favorite?

Animal Guides for Zodiac Signs

I believe that people usually have at least one primary animal guide, spirit animal, or totem animal whose spirit is with them throughout their life, as well as many secondary animal guides that come forward as needed during specific situations or stages of life. It occurred to me that I might be able to identify an animal guide or animal totem for each of the zodiac signs.

I will be doing this from time to time, with the intention of sharing which animal is acting as a guide or totem “right now” for each sign. For today’s reading I am using Steven D. Farmer’s Messages from Your Animal Spirit Guides Oracle Cards, illustrated by Bee Sturgis and published by Hay House.

One, two, three, go!

ARIES.............................................. TAURUS.....................................................GEMINI

Aries

Dear Aries, your totem or spirit animal right now is the CHAMELEON. If you are a typical Aries-Sun person, you may not think this creature could possibly be of any use to you. After all, Aries Rams are the last ones anyone would expect to “blend into the background.” As an active, cardinal, fire sign, Aries usually tries to lead the charge or, at the very least, make their presence known to one and all. But maybe, just maybe, right now you need to hold back a bit, dear Aries. It’s not about being passive. It’s about waiting, containing yourself until you know it’s the right time to step up and be noticed.

Taurus

Dear Taurus, your totem or spirit animal right now is the DOG. You already exhibit the characteristics of loyalty and faithfulness, but in this case the Dog may be calling your attention to the need to decide whether you are trying to serve too many masters. Not only that, dear Taurus, but you may need to ask yourself “why” you are trying to serve those people or things. The Dog may also be encouraging you to think about whether all of these “masters” really deserve your loyalty and faithfulness. You may wish to honor someone as your teacher without obeying them as your “master.”

Gemini

Dear Gemini, your totem or spirit animal right now is the SEAGULL. This is certainly a fitting creature for an Air sign, don’t you think? In this case, we are looking at a bird flying over a large body of water. Since the element water represents the emotions or subconscious, the Seagull may be trying to help you express your emotions, whether by sharing them with another person, recording them in a journal, or simply paying closer attention to how you feel about something. Your sign ruler, Mercury, is the planet of the mind and intellect, so the Seagull may be encouraging you to bring your head and heart into balance.

CANCER.............................................. LEO.....................................................VIRGO

Cancer

Dear Cancer, your totem or spirit animal right now is the ZEBRA. It is not unusual for someone with a Cancer-Sun to be fearful. As a water sign, you are highly sensitive and easily hurt, retreating into your shell when threatened. The Zebra reminds you that when you feel afraid, dear Cancer, it can be helpful to consider whether it is your thoughts about circumstances or events that are frightening you rather than the circumstances or events themselves. The Zebra offers you his alertness, sure-footedness, and confidence to help you determine if a threat is real or imagined, and if real, protection and guidance to help you feel grounded and centered.

Leo

Dear Leo, your totem or spirit animal right now is the ROADRUNNER. As the “King of Beasts,” you may wonder what a Roadrunner has to offer you. Well, as a fixed fire sign, dear Leo, you may have a tendency to take things very seriously or to become defensive and combative when challenged. Roadrunner encourages you to keep a sense of humor about your experiences if at all possible. Speedy, agile, and adaptable, the Roadrunner advises you to take a deep breath, lighten up, and appreciate the absurdities and ironies in almost everything.

Virgo

Dear Virgo, your totem or spirit animal right now is the MOUNTAIN GOAT. This may seem a more appropriate guide for the sign Capricorn, but like that sign, Virgo is an earth sign known for steadiness and reliability. If you feel that some of your steadiness or reliability is in danger of slipping, dear Virgo, the Mountain Goat is here to help you get back on track. If you have the perfectionist tendencies of many Virgo-Suns, you will feel much better when the various elements of your life are balanced and mutually supportive. Let the Mountain Goat help you get your bearings and correct anything that is “off.”

      LIBRA................................................. SCORPIO..............................................SAGITTARIUS

Libra

Dear Libra, your totem or spirit animal right now is the SPIDER. With your sign ruler, Venus, being the planet of beauty and art, the creative spark offered by the Spider is sure to be welcome. You may or may not appreciate actual spiders, dear Libra, but you can’t help admiring the intricate, delicate, and highly useful webs they create. If you are like many Libra-Suns, you may be easily distracted or have trouble focusing single-mindedly on one issue or project. The Spider is here to loan you some of its ability to connect, communicate, and focus on a creation.

Scorpio

Dear Scorpio, your totem or spirit animal right now is the TIGER. With Scorpio being the sign of power and control, you may feel that you do not need the leadership skills offered by the Tiger. However, dear Scorpio, you may also share the typical Scorpio-Sun tendency to be somewhat suspicious and less than transparent about your own agenda. These characteristics can impair your ability to lead successfully, but with the Tiger’s assistance, you will be up to the challenge. As a water sign, you are sensitive and may doubt your own proficiency. The Tiger can help you out there as well, inspiring self-confidence and self-awareness.

Sagittarius

Dear Sagittarius, your totem or spirit animal right now is the WOLVERINE. This tough, fierce, resourceful creature is a very nice match for the typically adventurous Sagittarius spirit. As an active fire sign, you probably have plenty of self-assurance and assertiveness, but unexpected events can shake even the Centaur’s confidence. If you are feeling that some adversity or challenge is getting the better of you, call on the Wolverine to stand beside you. Remember that persistence and endurance are at least as important as brute strength and flashy, courageous behavior.

        CAPRICORN...................................... AQUARIUS.................................................PISCES

Capricorn

Dear Capricorn, your totem or spirit animal right now is the MOUSE. Like most earth signs, Capricorn is usually no slouch when it comes to attention to detail, determination, and orderliness and in Capricorn’s case, it doesn’t hurt to have a sign-ruler like taskmaster Saturn. But the Mouse is here for you anyway, dear Capricorn, encouraging you to use caution and to be thoughtful in your decisions and actions. In your commendable pursuit of some over-arching life-goal, you may be missing some important details that truly matter to the outcome of your efforts. It won’t hurt to pay closer attention to what’s going on.

Aquarius

Dear Aquarius, your totem or spirit animal right now is the POLAR BEAR. If you’re like many Aquarius-Suns, you’re no stranger to the truth, and you don’t shy away from defending it. The Polar Bear reminds you that you are a force to be reckoned with, dear Aquarius, capable of fearless leadership, self-control, and even nobility. Your compassion and care for others will come across loud and clear. Though you may or may not get what you want, your chances are far better if you do ask. No matter how things turn out, you will make the decisions and taken the actions that express your power and wisdom.

Pisces

Dear Pisces, your totem or spirit animal right now is the HONEYBEE. Of all the zodiac signs, Pisces is one of the most compassionate, forgiving, and cooperative. Your heartfelt empathy and concern are legendary. The Honeybee is here to prompt you to manifest those qualities in a particular situation or relationship. If you feel critical of another person, take a moment to go inside yourself and look for that part of you that is exactly like what you are judging in that other person. Whether you see that sort of connection or not, this is a time for a community effort, working together with others towards a common goal.

Listen to the Animals: KIWI

For this Tarot Notes feature, I pull one card from an animal-themed deck to represent an important message from that animal.

If you are interested in finding out who your own Animal Guides are, you can get an Animal Guides Reading through my _Etsy shop_ or my _Web Site_.
https://www.etsy.com/listing/83334186/animal-guides-reading
http://zannastarr.weebly.com/animal-guides.html

This time my deck is Steven D. Farmer's Messages from Your Animal Spirit Guides Oracle Cards, illustrated by Bee Sturgis (Hay House).

Our animal today is the KIWI, a flightless birds native to New Zealand. For those of us on the other side of the world, who may never have seen or heard of this creature, the kiwi is approximately the size of a domestic chicken. Fun fact: Kiwis are by far the smallest living ratites (which also consist of ostriches, emus, rheas, and cassowaries).

Photo by Maungatautari Ecological Island Trust

For this card, Steven D. Farmer has chosen the message, “Do a walking meditation each day for the next week.” Farmer describes “walking meditation” as a slow, thoughtful walk for ten minutes or more, preferably in Nature, with your goal being to stay present and aware of your steps and contact with the ground while also being aware of the sights, sounds, and smells as you walk.

Farmer’s “Associations” for the Kiwi card: “Grounded; Nocturnal; Survival; Flexibility; Fatherhood; Innocence; Earthiness; Ancient Wisdom; Inspiration; Saftey; Speed; Quickness; Detection.”

Listen to the Animals: Cicada

For this Tarot Notes feature, I pull one card from an animal-themed deck to represent an important message from that animal.

If you are interested in finding out who your own Animal Guides are, you can get an Animal Guides Reading through my _Etsy shop_ or my _Web Site_.

The other day, when I stepped onto the back deck of my house, I nearly stepped on (or tripped over) a very large bug (photo below). I did not know what it was. Honestly, I love animals, but this very large bug gave me a most unpleasant sensation in my stomach and I froze in place. I was actually *afraid* it might be alive and would fly up into my face. Cautiously, I made my way around it and soon confirmed that it was no longer living. (I am sorry, dear bug, but this filled me with relief.)

Anyway, I found out that this was a cicada, specifically Neotibicen superbus, aka the Superb Cicada (or Superb Dog-Day Cicada). I am familiar with cicadas because of the shrill, loud “singing” (from the males) that I have heard all my life – but I had never seen one and didn’t realize how big they are (1-2 inches long for most species). Lordy.

Once I recovered from the incident, I was pretty sure I remembered the cicada being included in The Animal-Wise Tarot by Ted Andrews (Dragonhawk Publishing). Indeed, it is there, portraying the role of the Six of Shapeshifters (Cups) with the key phrase “Happiness from the Past.”

Let’s see what else we can learn from the cicada.

Ted Andrews describes this bug as a “fairly large” (an understatement, IMHO, but Ted may have encountered way huger insects than I have…), sap-sucking insect” that feeds “mainly upon trees.” Cicadas lay their eggs in soil, and the nymphs remain underground for several years (17 years for one American cicada).

Andrews tells us that an increase in attraction to and from the opposite sex is one of the things we might expect when we encounter the cicada (nothing in that area from me so far), but we may also have past-life experiences or begin to realize the effects people and situations of the past have had on our present.

Reversed, the card can represent a delay in the “hatching” of something and the need for patience (remember that 17-year underground stage).

Like all insects, the cicada calls our attention to the importance of change, whether it is the need to change or a caution against trying to rush change.

Listen to the Animals: Crow

For this Tarot Notes feature, I pull one card from an animal-themed deck to represent an important message from that animal.

If you are interested in finding out who your own Animal Guides are, you can get an Animal Guides Reading through my _Etsy shop_ or my _Web Site_.

Today I am consulting the Wolf Song Cards by Jeanette Spencer and Lew Hartman (U.S. Games Systems, Inc.)

Our animal for today is the CROW.

Information, Communication

I like crows (maybe because I’m not a farmer with a corn field!) I love their personalities and vocalizations. I understand they are quite smart as well. You may be interested to know the differences between crows and ravens. These web sites offers a few insights, with photos:
* How to Tell a Raven From a Crow
* Ravens and Crows - Who Is Who
* Similar Species: Crows and Ravens

In the Wolf Song Cards deck, the Crow represents a provider of information and communication. To summarize, the impressions we are likely to receive from the Crow include:
* the perfect blend of social grace and bravado
* the reputation of taking what belongs to others
* sometimes careless about others’ feelings

Advice from Crow might include:
* gather information to yourself
* communicate with others and draw on their information
* make no decision based on anything that is not fact
* guard your information; share it, but carefully
* listen without comment unless you have real information to contribute
* learn to hear what is being said beneath the words
* ask yourself, “Am I sharing knowledge or gossiping?”
* learn to communicate, not just talk

Earth, Moon, Sun Spread

My lovely Animal Dreaming Oracle Cards (purchased on a trip to Australia) were calling me to come and play, so I am using them for a 3-card reading provided by deck creator Scott Alexander King in his guidebook to the deck (deck and book published by Blue Angel Publishing).

The spread is called the Mother Earth, Grandmother Moon and Grandfather Sun Spread. Here is the layout:

And here are my cards:

(1) Connection to the Earth Mother

Here I am looking for a card that represents my connection to the Earth Mother, one that reminds me to honor every living thing as my brother or sister.

BROLGA (Dance)

The brolga is a type of crane formerly known as the “native companion.” This is the first time I have heard of this bird by this name. The “Dance” association in this oracle deck comes from the brolga’s elaborate mating dance. In my case, this creature is showing me that dance can be my bridge into other worlds, and that I can experience the unity of the Universe through dance. I love the mental image this gives me of joining all creatures of the Earth in a life-affirming dance.


(2) How to honor primarily feminine influences in my life

Here I am being advised how to honor the mothers, grandmothers, sisters, wives, and daughters in my life.

BAT (Rebirth)

It is quite appropriate here that the Bat symbolically recreates the act of birth when it exits its cave, with the cave being an ancient symbol for the Womb of Mother Earth. I am being encouraged to face any emotional issues I might have with any woman in my life, to remove any obstacles that might prevent life from flowing smoothly. I must be open to being reborn.


(3) How to honor primarily masculine influences in my life

The influences this card helps me to honor are those of fathers, grandfathers, brothers, husbands, and sons.

PLATYPUS (Women’s Wisdom)

I almost cheated and drew another card for this position. “Women’s Wisdom” seemed like a really odd thing to try to associate with “primarily masculine influences.” But I decided to persevere with the Platypus. Before now, I did not know the Aboriginal legend of how the Platypus was birthed from the forbidden, unlawful union of two souls. In retribution, the Elders turned her into a Duck and him into a Water Rat. From the egg the female produced emerged what we call the Platypus – a furry duck-billed creature with webbed feet.

The Platypus is said to look to her inner yin and yang for guidance, honoring her innate masculine and feminine qualities. Here then, perhaps, is how I honor the masculine influences in my life – by allowing them to complement, blend with, and balance my feminine influences rather than rejecting or repressing them as being foreign to my “female nature.” The deck’s creator writes: “Women are natural dreamers, visionaries and mystics, but they must embrace their masculine aspects in order to realise the full potential of these gifts.”

Listen to the Animals: Pelican

For this Tarot Notes feature, I pull one card from an animal-themed deck to represent an important message from that animal.

If you are interested in finding out who your own Animal Guides are, you can get an Animal Guides Reading through my _Etsy shop_ or my _Web Site_.

Today I am consulting The Secret Language of Animals Oracle Cards by Chip Richards (Blue Angel Publishing).

Our animal for today is the WHITE PELICAN (22)

Ease, Optimism, Grace, Cooperation

The deck’s creator, Chip Richards, tells us that in alchemy, Pelican symbolized the Philosopher’s Stone (a stone that turned base elements into gold). The pelican (Henet in Egyptian) was associated in Ancient Egypt with death and the afterlife. In medieval Europe, the pelican was thought to be particularly attentive to her young, to the point of providing her own blood by wounding her own breast when no other food was available.

Like many birds, pelicans glide in formation with each other to create draft and lift. They nest colonially, typically in groups of tens or hundreds. Cooperation is key.

Pelicans dive into the water for food, but literally cannot sink, thanks to air sacs beneath their skin. When we imagine ourselves sailing on air currents and floating on churning waves, while also feeling at home on the ground (where white pelicans nest), we begin to understand the ideas of  “ease” and “grace” as traits of the pelican.

The great white pelican is the national bird of Romania. The US state of Louisiana is known colloquially as the Pelican State; the bird appears on the state flag and state seal.

Richards concludes his “Message” for this card as follows: “From the outside, your life appears like a symphony of movement that defies nature. But within your soaring ways, it is the most natural, effortless and joyful expression of who you came to be.”

Here are some photos I have taken of pelicans.

Listen to the Animals: Opossum

For this Tarot Notes feature, I pull one card from an animal-themed deck to represent an important message from that animal.

If you are interested in finding out who your own Animal Guides are, you can get an Animal Guides Reading through my _Etsy shop_ or my _Web Site_.

Today I am consulting the _Power Animal Oracle Cards_ by Steven D. Farmer, Ph.D., with illustrations by Eric Nesmith.

Our animal for today is the OPOSSUM. 

Keyword: Strategy

Message: Have a back-up Plan.

Additional Associations: 

Grasping; Agility; Maternal Instinct; Stability

The opossum is such an interesting creature, reviled by many due to its rat-like tail, beady eyes, and propensity for eating trash. I can tell you from personal experience that when you catch one by surprise and it hisses at you, showing its teeth, you want to remove yourself from its presence immediately!

In spite of all this, one of my friends who is involved in animal rescue has taken in baby opossums on more than one occasion, even letting them sleep with her in her bed. (They are kind of cute as babies…)

I was amazed to learn that there are more than 60 different species of opossum, the most notable being the Virginia opossum or common opossum, the only marsupial (pouched mammal) found in the United States and Canada.

photo by Gary Owens

A popular expression, “Playing Possum,” comes from the behavior of the Virginia opossum, who can appear to be dead when threatened. This is not something it consciously chooses to do. Rather, because of the stress of an imminent threat, the opossum instinctively goes into shock and enters a comatose state that can last from 40 minutes to four hours. (Opossums are not the only animal to do this. The ploy may put a predator off its guard and allow the prey animal to make its escape.)

Dr. Farmer chooses to relate the opossum to having a “Plan B, or at least a few other approaches to the subject of your inquiry.” He notes that it is important to listen to your inner promptings in order to become aware of options that were not obvious at first.

I will go with that, but I also think when the opossum is your “power animal” it may bring you the ability to know when to “play dumb” or “play dead.” The best response to a threat is NOT always to fight back, talk your way out, or immediately try to escape. I can see a certain advantage, in some situations, to simply remaining silent and waiting for your moment to make a move.

Listen to the Animals: Cheetah

For this Tarot Notes feature, I pull one card from an animal-themed deck to represent an important message from that animal.

If you are interested in finding out who your own Animal Guides are, you can get an Animal Guides Reading through my _Etsy shop_ or my _Web Site_.

Today I am starting with the Ancient Animal Wisdom deck by Stacy James and Jada Fire (U.S. Games Systems, Inc.) To read my review of this deck, please click HERE.

My card is CHEETAH (22). 

Stacy and Jada see the Cheetah in this deck as representing the Divine Feminine. In numerology, the number 22 reduces to 4 (2+2), which Stacy and Jada say represents “discipline, order, devotion.” The appearance of this card encourages the Seeker to celebrate the divine feminine energy with the special women in his or her life, and to “acknowledge the yin energy on the planet as unconditionally beautiful and nourishing.” We are also encouraged to honor the divine feminine within ourselves, whether we be male or female.

The colors used on this card strike me as “fire” colors, which I normally associate with masculine energy. The color yellow is commonly associated with the element air, also a “masculine” element. I see strong Solar (traditionally male) energy rather than Lunar (traditionally female) energy here. Astrologically, the scales suggest the zodiac sign Libra, an Air sign, yet also a sign ruled by Venus, a strong feminine symbol. And the abstract figures facing each other at the top of the card are clearly female.

In Susie Green’s Animal Messages deck, illustrated by Csaba Pasztor (Cico Books), the Cheetah card means “A decision once made will be followed by unwavering action.” The Cheetah stalks its prey with unwavering patience and focus, then breaks into a run at just the right moment, using its speed to achieve the goal it decided to pursue.

Similarly, in Steven D. Farmer’s Messages from Your Animal Guides Oracle Cards (Hay House, Inc.), the Cheetah’s message is: “Get clear on your intention, stay focused, and move quickly to achieve your goal.” Associations provided for this card are “Speed; Focus; Insight; Passion; Swiftness; Elusiveness; Flexibility; Efficiency; Self-esteem; Powerful; Graceful; Purposeful; Energetic; Sensuous; Accomplishment; Directness.”

Like so many things, the Divine Feminine is perhaps more complex than we sometimes think.

Finally, here are some photos I took of cheetahs. I hope you enjoy.