Guiding words/ideas:
Grief and despair; either feeling this oneself or witnessing another in this state; allow these emotions to be processed gently and with “loose” support; having good boundaries when supporting another; you are not alone (other being are supporting you); grief as a creature in an of itself, with its own timeline; grief leading to deep knowledge and humility.
Channeled wisdom:
This card depicts a human who has turned their energy inwards in their grief and despair. It is a painful card to experience and connect with, for most humans avoid these feelings. They’re unpleasant and can create so much anxiety that depression sets in. In this case, depression is working to soften the anxiety and panic that can arise with deep despair and grief. These states are so very human. Humans have a uniquely difficult time processing loss. Other beings do feel it, but they move on more quickly. Humans feel it very, very deeply. It is one of the most unique traits of being human.
Do you relate to the being in this card? Do you feel in you a sense of despair and grief? Or do you feel as though you’re witnessing another human struggling with these things? Do either of these scenarios cause you to feel helpless? These emotional states have to be processed gently by the one feeling them and held and supported loosely by those around them.
If you are one who wants to assist someone in their grief, make sure there are good boundaries. Make sure your energy is clear and that you don’t absorb their pain or react to their pain. Hold the space loosely, with great tenderness and as much love as you are able.
If you are the one going through this painful process, know that others, known and unknown, are holding you as you work through these feelings. You may feel bitterly alone, and yet you are never alone in your grief and despair. Other beings are around you, supporting you, loving you, and holding you, even if only energetically. You may not physically feel the support, but it is there. This energetic support is symbolized by the five magical, circular beings (pentacles) hovering over the figure’s left shoulder, this side being connected to a human’s heart.
So whether you are identifying with the being in the card or feeling a need to support somebody who is going through that process, move ahead with tenderness, no agenda, and (as much as possible), no concern for how long this process may take. Grief, in a way, is a creature in and of itself. It comes in waves. It’s unpredictable. It morphs and changes like a living being. Give it room and support, and it eventually will pass. It may leave some scars, but it will also leave deep knowledge and humility.
Plant and metal guidance:
Iron oxide/rust over black walnut (dark brown and black cloak/blanket): I connect you to the core of the planet from whence I come. My energy is strong and solid.
Sumac (pink edge of cloak/blanket): We enter spaces to protect and nourish… offering nourishment to those who need it. We share our strategies with you, and remind you to accept care and sustenance with gentle boundaries and without judgement or conditions.
Black walnut (light brown of background): The strength of our magic lies in our ability to clear space and provide opportunities for recharging and resetting.
Copper oxide (light blue crystalline circles above figure’s left shoulder): I magnify the properties of whatever plants I touch or impact.
Avocado (orange shadow on figure’s face): We relate to the heart and core of all beings, and thus share energies of love, sense of purpose and deep connection.
Magical Nature Tarot 
