6 of Swords-Reversed

I adventure into the great unknown

So much of our lives are spent trying to avoid change because to move away from what is familiar involves risk, even danger. Yet remaining where we are is not easy either. As philosopher Joseph Campbell wrote, “We must let go of the life we have planned, so as to accept the one that is waiting for us.”

The Six of Swords indicates it is time to venture across the unknown sea, something is awaiting your arrival. The card depicts an Indian brave sailing his kayak on the great river of life. The water is golden with possibility. He has left his home because a journey has called him. He is willing to face off potential dangers in the search for meaning and answers. He balances precariously, perched at the mouth of a waterfall, connecting to the vision before him of a spirit guide which breathes new life into his being. Shards of glowing rock appear to his right. Angelic patterning hovers above him, messengers from a new land.

Inertia, a tendency to do nothing or to remain unchanged, often sits at the helm of any changes we want to make in our lives. It is hardwired biology trying to protect us from risk. Another ally of inertia is the false impression we need to feel good, or positive about a change in order to move ahead. In fact, very often we are pushed by the sheer force of life circumstance. Many of the greatest works of art and literature have been sparked by the fire of turmoil, or birthed from the dark womb of sadness.

As I worked on several Starman Tarot cards, I felt nothing short of dreadful existential sadness, feeling completely artistically blocked and even physically ill. And yet those cards are among the most innovative and profound for me. They turned out to be powerful transition points propelling me to more vivid creative territories. They helped me ask deeper, richer questions.

The Six of Swords indicates it is time to venture across the unknown sea, something is awaiting your arrival. The card depicts an Indian brave sailing his kayak on the great river of life, the water is golden with possibility. He has left his home because a journey has called him. He is willing to face potential dangers in the search for meaning and answers. He balances precariously, perched at the mouth of a waterfall, connecting to the vision before him of a spirit guide which breathes new life into his being. Shards of glowing rock appear to his right. Angelic patterning hovers above him, a messenger from a new land.

Reversed: Trying to jump straight to a new phase of life without gaining any insight or wisdom. Remaining stuck in an uncomfortable place. Inertia wins. Clinging to false beliefs. Going round in circles. Constantly needing to be rescued.