“Courage is grace under pressure.” -Ernest Hemingway

STRENGTH is the archetype of endurance and perseverance despite challenges, especially emotional challenges. When we call in the energy of our inner Strength, we find that we are less reactive to difficulty, more peaceful and alert, more in tune with our instincts, and more in touch with our personal power. We exhibit grace under pressure, a state of non-reactive equanimity which helps us transcend the pain or fear in our lives. This state is ideal for dealing with difficult people and emotions.

Strength is gentle, self-assured, and calm, but not to be underestimated! In addition, this archetype is very much about facing the truth of one’s inner animal nature. In many ways, mankind is still very primitive, despite our attempts at civilization. We still deal with the same collective shadows of obsessions, darkness, irrational fears, and basic urges. This archetype is a symbol of the right marriage between our spirit, conscience, and soul, finding successful union with the animal instincts of our physical bodies. Through kindness and awareness of our inner demons, we can keep them from running our lives. At the same time, we can strengthen our inner talents and allow them to flourish. ~ Kayleigh Jean of Falcons and Pentacles

Day 9: What is my greatest inner strength?

Seven of Cups, reversed: Emotional intensity, ability to bring emotions to a spiritual level, seeking spiritual enlightenment, willing to go deep, love.

According to the Paulina deck (pictured here), Seven of Cups reversed is Determination and Willpower.

Traditionally Seven of Cups is a choice between what will uplift spiritually and what may bring a quick satisfaction of desires. Both are important – though the seven urges to choose what will move you toward elevation and true connection.

For me, a life that is not guided by feeling/intuition is a dangerous path toward apathy.

I am determined to live a life guided by my intuition — and I have the willpower to take action through leaps of faith and through methodical process. This way of being has led me on amazing adventures throughout my life. Most recently, I am excited to step into a life of more creative and emotional freedom as I leave my current, non-fulfilling, soul-deadening job behind!