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"It is only with the heart that one can see rightly.

What is essential is invisible to the eye."

– the Fox in Antoine de Saint-Exupery’s The Little Prince

Gaian Tarot

A young woman stands on a hill overlooking a river valley. She hasn’t stepped into the scene yet, but a fox seems to be encouraging her to cross over the root of a gnarled tree and into a new future. Four birds fly around her in Disneyesque fashion and two yellow butterflies seem to beckon, too.

The valley below seems lush and pristine for now, but a trail is visible near a ford in the river. At the other end of the valley, dark hills rise, gradually becoming a snow peaked mountain.

The young woman holds two poles. One is firmly on the ground; the other pole is balanced on her left shoulder and from it, hangs a bright blue bag decorated with feathers. She seems to be contemplating a journey, but her clothing is lightweight and we can’t see whether her feet are well shod. A yellow butterfly is embroidered on her blue vest and she has stuck a feather in her braided hair. Is she going to put her right foot forward? And what direction will it take her? I worry for her, but she doesn’t seem as reckless as The Fool in the Rider-Waite-Smith deck.

The feather in her hair reminds me of the song Yankee Doodle Dandy, “He stuck a feather in his cap and called it macaroni.” British soldiers composed the lyrics to mock colonial fighters in the French and Indian War. Doodle meant fool and macaroni meant the height of fashion. Colonials embraced the song and, years later, sang it to defeated British troops. The Seeker has embraced who she is and doesn't let the opinions or mockery of others determine her self-perception or her actions. She hasn't accepted the role or label anyone has applied to her and is not trapped in any situation.

The cynic in me does not like the saying most often associated with this card, “Leap and a net will appear.” However, a member of the Gaian Tarot Circle, Susan Z, heard the fox say, "Remember, experience doesn't have to make you jaded. Cynicism is not the same as wisdom. Open your heart and notice the day, the flowers, and the smell of spring. Life doesn't ever get tired of blooming, so why should you?"

The Seeker is not held back by fear or grief. The hopefulness and optimism of a child guide her. Often, it's merely that attitude that can bring blessings into one's life.

What might Hestia say to me if this card appeared today?

Is the fox calling you outward, promising you the world? He is a trickster, like our friend Hermes, the god of boundaries, thresholds, and transitions.

Are you certain the call is true? Then step forward. The whole Earth is your home and my hearth is only one place among many. You have known peace and renewal in my temple. You can carry your light within yourself wherever you go.

Do you hesitate? Ask yourself why and heed your soul's answer.

When you travel outside my temple, remember the skills you have learned and adapt them to your journey. I cannot walk beside you, but I have friends and allies who will be your teachers. As you breath onto tinder to start a fire each evening, the smoke will carry your prayers to those who will share their light and wisdom with you.

Let me help prepare your pack. What will you need to carry with you?

flint and steel and char cloth (to warm your body and inspire your soul),

your teraphim (reminders of home and history, diviners of the future),

your experience,

your self-esteem,

and your love.

Sadly, there's never a map. If you need water, watch the birds. In fact, always take time to stop and experience nature.

There will be storms. Find shelter, but listen for messages in the thunder.

See the beauty and magic around you and make each step a prayer. The rhythm of your feet on the way may bring stillness to your soul.

Welcome the people you encounter, be willing to make a home for them in your heart, but listen to the Fox to know when you should be wary. And never lose yourself, even in the bliss of belonging.

I have taught you to see the magic in the everyday and to take strength from the ordinary. The many wonders of the journey, even a simple wildflower or an unexpected creature, should overwhelm you. So recognize and appreciate the ordinariness of each day. Stay centered by noticing the sameness in your routines... rising with the sun, stepping onto the road, gazing at the sites around you, and settling into your campsite each night.

The only way to worship is to listen to your own soul. Don't chose a path that is safe and well trod unless it is also your path. Do what is right in the moment.

And when you need guidance, gaze into the fire.

Here are images of The Fool from other tarot decks: