Monday 16 May 2016

What's the opposite of schadenfreude?

This card has been a key player in my draws since mid-April. Keeps turning up, once as a blockage card. The 6 of Wands is about victory, but not lasting peace. The 7 of Wands that follows it shows active defense, as the figure staves off an uphill attack from his position at the top of the hill. Still, there's no point in borrowing trouble. 'Be not therefore anxious about the troubles of tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof', as Jesus himself said in Matthew 6:34. For today, enjoy the success.

James Ricklef's book, The Soul's Journey: Finding Spiritual Messages in the Tarot, suggests aspects of this card I have not considered before. Ricklef says that the number six is about reciprocity, and that the 6 of Wands advocates gratitude for the encouragement others give us, as well as having more than a lukewarm or grudging praise for the success of others. (Sort of like the opposite of schadenfreude.)

The message I'm taking is that it's okay to feel successful today, but don't be surprised if another hurdle is thrown up in the future. That's the way life is.




6 comments:

  1. I've just ordered that book, thanks for the insight! :)

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  2. Yes, I've heard it talked about as success that you couldn't have achieved without others, so make sure they get some of the praise, too... :)

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    Replies
    1. Hm, haven't heard that one, that's a good one.

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  3. Today I've seen a lot of posts where gratitude is encouraged. I guess I need to open up my journal. it's been too long...
    Thanks!

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