Four of Blades

A needed retreat; a moment of contemplation. Rest, retirement for the swirling chaos of the world.

In the suit of blades, the odd numbered cards tend to be the active principles, expressing the  querent as either actor or acted upon. The even numbered cards are more about stillness, holding patterns, a moment of waiting before the next action.

The four is no different- it is a card of repose. A card of dropping out, of stepping back and away, and furthermore of the actual need for such. This is not simply choosing to be un-involved, nor is it watching from a distance. This is removal of one’s self from whatever is going on around, of moving to a quiet place and reconsidering.

As some of the monks say- one hour of meditation is advised every day. On especially busy days, two hours is mandatory.