Monday Meditation: The Wheel of Fortune
Today I pulled the Wheel of Fortune. This card is all about cycles, surrender, acceptance, change and the randomness of variability and luck.
All of nature works in cycles, and the only constant is change and evolution. We see this in the seasons, the transition from day to night, aging, etc. One day it is summer, and you feel on top of the world; your garden is plentiful, you’re full of energy, everything is flowing smoothly… until the wheel turns, and now it’s time to transition into autumn, when everything begins to die and give way to winter. Maybe your luck has changed along with the season.
We cannot fight the cycles of nature no matter how hard we try, or how blind we are or try to be to them. I think, at least personally, alot of times it is easy to forget that no cycle is permanent, either. Some years ago, I wrote a meditation, part of which says: “We do not look at winter in all her bitterness and say, ‘Surely nothing else exists after this.’” So let today’s meditation be a reminder of that.
No matter where you are in your own cycle of life, if you’re having a stroke of luck—good or bad—let its impermanence be a relief and an inspiration for you. If you’re struggling now, know that you’re only getting closer to brighter days ahead. Alternately, if you’re currently on an upswing, take the time to savor the moment and be thankful for how far you’ve come. Don’t sour the moment with anxiety about when your good streak will take a turn for the worst.
As we’ve entered the autumn season in the western sphere, quickly approaching winter, let us look at this time of harvest and the gradual slowing down as a blessing. May we be present enough to enjoy the fruits of our labors in the spring and summer months, and may we anticipate the approaching time of stillness and rest with gratitude. Let us allow ourselves to follow the waning current into stillness so that we can replenish our reservoirs and be rejuvenated for new challenges and dreams.
Additionally, let’s focus on the things we can control: like what we feed ourselves, in mind, body and spirit; and what we do in response to external stimuli and change. Resisting the natural flow of life can lead to sickness and unnecessary strife.
Things to reflect on this week:
How am I supporting myself during this cycle? (i.e. What am I eating, watching, etc.?)
How do I feel in this season?
In what ways am I resisting change or delaying the inevitable?
In what areas do I need to slow down or surrender?
What am I grateful for in the present moment?
