What I'm Swimming In

this week

Photo by Ioann-Mark Kuznietsov on Unsplash

This week, I’m going to do something a little different, and talk about what’s getting me excited, what is on my mind, who I’m reading:

1. I don’t identify as a Christian, but do find a lot of wisdom in the tradition, and consider myself lucky to have some Christians in my life I admire deeply (you know who you are!) Kate Bowler’s book Good Enough came at a good time for me as I enter into a very busy season at work and at home. She offers 40 days of short writings and suggestions which reaffirm what we already probably know, that perfectionism is bullshit, and we need to remember all we bring to the table in our mediocrity, our journey to embracing our imperfections. The word mediocrity makes me bristle. I was brought up in a world where mediocrity was not acceptable. But if we look to the meaning, which is to be ordinary, maybe it is ok to be an ordinary person, a human being. Just a thought.

2. Last year I took a course with creative entrepreneur Tammi Salas, called The Invitation. It was amazing because it offered so many resources as I entered into 2022, to bring intentionality to my year. My word of the year was BELIEVE and in believing in myself, I was able to launch two new businesses, and begin writing regularly here. I also did a year ahead tarot spread and connected with my then teacher, now teaching partner, Laurie Blackwell. This year I am honored to be one of the guest experts (on enneagram), and am excited to look at ways we can use our enneagram type intentionally as we plan into 2023. Here is more info for you if you’re interested: The Invitation 2023

3. As Laurie Blackwell and I continue planning our Winter Solstice event on 12/18, I’m rereading parts of Wintering. It is a phenomenal month by month voyage through pain and wisdom and I’m reading about the light of St. Lucia right now in the December chapters right now. Wintering is about respecting our need for retreat and rest during “fallow times.” It is so easy to get caught up in all this and all that. Katherine May reminds us that rest and reflection are as important as action and achievement.

4. Crow Tarot

   Those who know me well, know I have an issue with birds. Growing up in NYC with pigeons (rats with wings), being chased by an angry goose with my kids when they were little, and any number of other bad bird experiences I’ve had over the years, have made me the resident bird hater. Crows are a whole problem unto themselves. They are all over Seattle, they hover around me way too close, are too smart for their own good, and make me nervous. But then this tarot deck came through my book store last week and the beauty of the cards makes me reconsider, just a little, my bird position. Get this deck, it is gorgeous, and stay tuned for my potential BIG BIRD TURNAROUND.

5. I can’t ever stray far from Meditations on the Tarot. It is huge and I’ve never found anyone willing to do a study of it with me, so I dabble. I’m reading the Hermit this week, in relation to the arrival of winter. Tomberg states: “…the Hermit of legend and the Hermit of history was, is, and always will be the solitary man with the lamp, mantle and staff. For he possesses the gift of letting light shine in the darkness.” Thinking about the Hermit’s three tools, and how they represent dualities, collectivity and aloneness, spirituality and empiricism, shadows and clarity. The Hermit CHOOSES to be alone in the monastic life. He is not ostracized, he decided to live this way. The Hermit is intentional.

Final Note:

The holidays can bring all kinds of emotions to the surface. My sincere hope is that you allow yourself whatever space you need to take good care, and if that includes enjoying a meal with others so be it. I am am happy to cook for a small group this year, including my two sons, husband, and longtime friend. I am committed to not going overboard and just enjoying time together. It does not have to be perfect. But I would be lying if I said I’m o with a mediocre dinner. I want it to be special.