January 11th New Moon Intention & Affirmation

The new moon is upon us, so I have a new tarot curated intention and affirmation for us to work with. This moon cycle I used the Game of Thrones Tarot, and we pulled the Eight of Wands, Nine of Wands, and Death. Be sure to have a look at the cards, let’s dive in.

What a potent trio we have with us this moon cycle. When I look at these archetypes I see a whirlwind of movement, resilience in the face of challenge, and a transformation. Let's delve deeper into the message of each archetype.

• Eight of Wands: Buckle up, because things are moving fast! This card harkens swift action, sudden changes, and unexpected opportunities. Be open to the winds of change, stay adaptable, and trust your intuition to guide you through a dynamic period.

• Nine of Wands: The Nine of Wands speaks of internal battles, exhaustion under pressure, and the feeling of standing alone against adversity. Remember, even the sturdiest trees bend in a storm. You might need to be flexible and adaptable too. Don't be afraid to ask for support, to rest and regroup, and to find strength in your inner warrior.

• Death: Don't be alarmed, Death in the tarot signifies a necessary transformation. It's time to shed outdated versions of yourself, release limiting beliefs, and let go of anything that no longer serves you.

Intention: When life feels intense and overwhelming, it’s important to cultivate resilience and embrace the transformative power of letting go. This moon cycle let’s try not to resist change, but flow with it.

Affirmation: I stand strong in the face of adversity and change by releasing what no longer serves me.

Staying resilient in the face of change can feel like navigating a stormy sea on a rickety boat. Here are some anchors to help you emerge stronger on the other side.

• Remember how resilient you are. You’ve weather storms in the past with success, and you can do it again. You’ve learned from past experiences, and you know how to do hard things.

• Change is inevitable, so resist the urge to cling to the familiar. See change as an opportunity to learn, grow, and explore new possibilities. Train your mind to be open to different perspectives and adapt your plans when needed.

• Surround yourself with supportive people who can offer encouragement, advice, and a shoulder to cry on. These connections can become your safe harbor during turbulent times.

• Taking care of your physical and mental well-being is crucial for weathering storms. Prioritize good sleep, healthy eating, exercise, and activities that bring you joy. These practices will replenish your energy.

• Pay attention to your thoughts and emotions, especially during times of uncertainty. Recognize and acknowledge challenges, but don't get swept away by negative thoughts. Rather than worrying about things beyond your control, channel your energy into proactive steps you can take to manage the situation. This will give you a sense of agency and empowerment.

• While change can feel overwhelming in the moment, it's often a catalyst for growth and positive transformation. Focus on the big picture and trust that you will emerge stronger and wiser.

Marge Piercy in her poem “To be of use” talks about people who jump into life head on. She describes what I would call resilience in a beautiful way. Change comes and goes, life carries on, the Great Wheel is always turning. So why not carry on with it and dive into the good, the terrible, and the delicious?

There are many times we will be called to move through muck and mire, but we are also called to flow in the magic of the mundane. Whatever is happening right now, no matter what words you’d use to describe it, don’t forget to add miracle, magic, and spectacular to the list.

How’s it going in your world? Do share, you know I love to hear from you.

To be of use

By Marge Piercy

The people I love the best

jump into work head first

without dallying in the shallows

and swim off with sure strokes almost out of sight.

They seem to become natives of that element,

the black sleek heads of seals

bouncing like half-submerged balls.

I love people who harness themselves, an ox to a heavy cart,

who pull like water buffalo, with massive patience,

who strain in the mud and the muck to move things forward,

who do what has to be done, again and again.

I want to be with people who submerge

in the task, who go into the fields to harvest

and work in a row and pass the bags along,

who are not parlor generals and field deserters

but move in a common rhythm

when the food must come in or the fire be put out.

The work of the world is common as mud.

Botched, it smears the hands, crumbles to dust.

But the thing worth doing well done

has a shape that satisfies, clean and evident.

Greek amphoras for wine or oil,

Hopi vases that held corn, are put in museums

but you know they were made to be used.

The pitcher cries for water to carry

and a person for work that is real.

Marge Piercy, "To be of use" from Circles on the Water. Copyright © 1982 by Marge Piercy.