Major Arcana Plan a Summer Vacation ©

 

The Fool wants all the major arcana to simply go to the airport, walk up to the first gate they see, buy tickets, and off they go! How foolish, say the rest. We must plan and discuss our vacation to insure we will all agree. The High Priestess is consulted about places they should avoid.  She knows everything that is going on in every corner of the world—the good, the bad, the safe, and the dangerous.

 

The Empress wants to go on a nature oriented trip—some place where nature is abundant. She wants nothing to do with boring, stuffy city places. The Emperor vows to stand by the decision of the group, and to protect them always. Of course, The Hierophant prefers they go to a holy place, or perhaps a retreat, to meditate and pray. It is doubtful he will get his wish, as the majority of the rest prefer not being confined to rules and such. The Lovers are pushing for a very romantic area---a tropical island, or a remote cabin in the woods, on a lake. They want a place where they can be alone, even though the whole group is with them.

 

The Chariot is ready to drive whenever necessary, and believes it is his duty to keep them under control, at all times. They get a bit carried away and need to be reined in every now and then! Strength knows how difficult it is for such a diverse group to get along for an extended period of time, and hopes she can use her strength to keep everything harmonious. To accomplish this, The Hermit advises that each member find it in the deepest part of their soul to work together, and make the trip pleasant and enjoyable for all. The Wheel of Fortune reminds them that no matter how hard they all try, there are going to be ups and downs along the trip. Not everyone will always agree. Not everyone will partake in each activity.  He says, go with the flow, for the enjoyment of all. Justice states that the location must be fair for all—the location should not favor only a few--everyone should have an equal enjoyment factor.

 

The Hanged Man has been suspended above, listening.  He is indifferent to the decision. He could not care less what the decision will be, as he is quite capable of going in any direction. Quite contrary, Death wants to insure that a new destination will be chosen—not one they have visited previously. He does not want the same old, stagnant choices. He wants a new adventure in his life. Temperance states that the final choice should be agreeable to all.  Activities need to be based on enjoyment for all, and will monitor the events to be sure there is a good mix of activities.

 

The Devil is very excited, but that excitement is short lived. He is told in no uncertain terms that the group will not tolerate drugs, excessive gambling, drinking, or any other bad habits he promotes. He must leave his vices at home. The Tower is concerned about the safety of the place where they will sleep. He needs to be reassured that the structure of the hotel is sound, and that nothing can undermine their safety, or cut short their vacation time.

 

The Star is wishing for a beautiful, peaceful location—one where all their dreams and wishes for happiness and fun can come true. The Moon wants a place near water—be it a lake, or ocean, or lagoon. He shines so beautifully over water, and wants everyone to see the real side of the moon—the bright light of the night, not the dark side of the unknown. Agreeing with him is The Sun, adding that a warm, bright sunny daytime would enhance the experience for all. The Sun during the day, and The Moon at night is just perfect for successful vacations.

 

Judgment chimes in and cautions all to be fair, to be kind, and to not do anything detrimental  that might endanger the group.  If you cause harm, or unhappiness, I assure you, you will have to answer for your deeds, he emphasizes.

 

The World stands up and shows them all the wonderful places she has to offer.  You cannot go wrong anywhere on this great planet—there is beauty to be seen everywhere—you just have to make your choice.

 

And so, the final decision is left to The Magician.  He spreads his tools out on the table and ponders which one will provide the answer. Hmmmm, he says---the wand may cause too much arguing from the group, as it can generate an excess of passion. The cup may bring out too much emotion, since this is a very sensitive group to begin with.  The pentacle, of course, is very important. Not all are wealthy. We must be grounded and realistic about the cost. Finally, The Magician decides to throw caution to the wind, and launch his sword at the map on his wall.  Where it lands, is where they will go!

 

By Joanne Matthew