The “Four of Cups” on October 22nd – three goblets on a table, with a fourth being offered from a cloud to a deeply contemplative figure. This figure, lost in thought, seems oblivious to the new opportunity presented.
Initially, I perceived a sense of sadness in the figure, but upon deeper reflection, it’s more about profound thoughtfulness. So absorbed in contemplation, the figure is missing the additional goblet on offer – a clear metaphor for missed opportunities due to internal focus.
The Power of Cups: Community, Unity, Partnership
For me, “Cups” often signify community, unity, and partnership. The core question that arises from this card is: What am I not seeing? Have I become so fixated on problems and solutions that I’ve temporarily lost sight of my original goals and aims? The answer, I believe, is yes. However, nothing has truly changed; I haven’t lost anything, but rather, I’ve gained much.
Three-Quarters of the Way There
I feel I’m three-quarters of the way to achieving my goals. Today, my focus will be on appreciating what I already possess. If I take the time to fully acknowledge what’s already in place – and I believe this applies directly to my business – I might just gain a new perspective. It’s often easier to dwell on what’s wrong or missing than to truly recognize our blessings.
The Missing Piece: Gratitude
Yesterday, I didn’t practice much gratitude despite a significant “win.” Lately, whenever I’ve overcome a challenge or figured something out, I’ve experienced an incredible buzz. After years of stagnation and repeated restarts, I’ve learned to fully appreciate these victories. Gratitude, once an abstract concept, is now something I strive to practice fully. Or perhaps, it’s something I need to mindfully re-engage with.
Now that I’m paying attention, I can avoid being blasé. Why didn’t I celebrate my win yesterday? I felt utterly exhausted, physically and mentally. While it’s tempting to use that as an excuse for neglecting gratitude, I need to challenge that notion. The win was even more worthy of celebration precisely because my resources were low. Despite the fatigue, I persevered for hours, and I figured it out.
The Website Win and Lingering Tension
Curious about my triumph? It was website-related, specifically resolving an issue where posts appeared differently on desktop and mobile views. This was hugely important to me, and I fixed it.
As I reflect on this, I feel a tightening in my chest and jaw. A bigger picture is emerging. That accomplishment was truly significant, not easy given my fuzzy brain, and it took a considerable amount of time. I patiently worked through guides and tutorials, trying various approaches, and I succeeded.
So, why the body tension? It could be a subconscious awareness that I need to repeat this exercise several more times to get my website exactly where I want it to be. It’s nerve-wracking and energy-depleting.
Grasping the Offering
Taking deep, deep breaths, I remind myself of the bigger picture: I am three-quarters of the way there. I need to hold onto that. The remaining missing quarter is not only within reach, it’s being offered. It’s time to grasp it with gratitude.
Liz Dean: in a stuck situation, it’s time to re-evaluate, to find the energy and inspiration needed.
Sarah Bartlett: doubt, hesitation, and introspection – not seeing what’s on offer.
Tina Gong: apathy, detachment, and contemplation, identify expectations and search for motivation. She wisely states that when we stop focusing on the present moment, we lose sight of life’s gifts.
Today, I found myself aligning with these interpretations even before consulting the texts. Tuning into the card with my own thoughts and feelings, it felt spot-on. I love it when that happens! Now for some seriously mindful gratitude time.