Temperance: Balance & Harmony
I was reminded just yesterday – by the incredible Chaya Nadi and messages from my Angels, Ancestors, Guardians, and Guides – that Temperance is something I need to tune into in the coming times.
If I’m honest, today has not been a day of Temperance. We went shopping for plants to landscape our front lawn and then I got snacks from Aldi for our D&D game. I made a charcuterie board full of multigrain crackers, dried apricots and dates, garlic and herb goat cheese, dark chocolate… You get the picture, I’m sure.
From Chaya’s reading: “Ancestors say that you are a stubborn one, too--especially if something is really important to you. They ask that you hold the energies of Temperance. And also remember that you are a High Priestess who can alchemize any situation. Regroup & feel the Earth. Listen for your Ancestors' voices among the trees.”
This was such a beautiful message to receive. But, it’s taken me until this moment in pausing to really take it in and how it might relate to today!
Though I long to be a hostess, one of the best ways I can serve my little community is by making the healthier indulgent choices. This honors my body temple, too. That’s essential as I step into this increased level of guidance, coaching, and healing for others, as well as ethics. Though I am perfectly imperfect and very much human, it is my goal to continue to treat myself with the utmost respect and love I possibly can, and that means continuing to fine tune the way I approach my values.
This returns me back to the topic of today’s blog, The Temperance Card.
As I write this blog, “The Waves We Give” by A Beautiful Chorus is playing in the background and there is no better song for this card and this moment!
We decide the shape we’re in and the waves we give. We are capable of being like water (perhaps it’s easier for me as a Natural Number 9 to be water, but bear with me). We can flow and we can crash. We can be in harmony in a way that is without resistance, or create tension with a push and pull of energy. Neither has to be “bad,” but we want to be conscious of what waves we give.
Honestly, my life lately has been a series of rushing moments. I’ve been struggling against the stream a bit, trying to grapple some kind of control against the current by building some perfect raft to the end. But, if I just breathe deeply and give my belly up to the sky, there is the rapture of going with the flow within myself: I have everything I need within me.
That is a bit of what Temperance represents to me in this moment, but I invite you to really dive into the meaning of this card and see what it brings up for you!
Where can you find more balance in your life right now?
Symbolism & Interpretation
The Temperance tarot card is a powerful symbol of balance, moderation, and harmony. It depicts an angelic figure standing with one foot in water and the other on land, pouring water from one cup to another. The figure's wings are outstretched, representing a sense of balance and control over opposing forces. The Temperance card often appears in tarot readings as a reminder to seek balance in all aspects of life, including our thoughts, emotions, and actions.
One interpretation of the Temperance card is that it represents the need to find a middle ground in life. This can mean seeking a balance between work and play, between taking risks and being cautious, or between giving and receiving. By finding this middle ground, we can lead a more fulfilling and enjoyable life. The card also represents the importance of being patient and taking things slowly, rather than rushing headlong into things without considering the consequences.
Temperance may represent the need for self-control and moderation. This can mean avoiding excess in all things, from food and drink to work and leisure activities. By practicing self-control and moderation, we can avoid the negative consequences of overindulgence and maintain a sense of balance and harmony in our lives.
Affirmation: "I create balance in a harmonious way."
Keywords: Moderation, Harmony, and Balance.
Reflection Questions:
In what areas of my life do I need to find more balance and harmony?
What are some ways that I can practice self-control and moderation?
Am I rushing into things too quickly, or am I being too cautious and not taking enough risks?
How can I cultivate more patience and take things more slowly in my life?
What steps can I take to find a middle ground between opposing forces in my life?
Here in the Living LUNA community, our theme for April is “Sowing the Seeds of Curiosity!” Throughout the month of April, we'll explore the journey of the Fool alongside the symbolism of the Major Arcana cards from Tarot. Each archetype offers opportunities for self-reflection! Follow along or participate in our community by joining our Discord server at: https://discord.gg/5UkGZb9kYp
