Day One: Unexpected Journey

I never thought I’d be writing this. On the night of August 15th, 2024, my world imploded. The money I’d scraped together to escape a toxic situation and start anew had vanished. A week of work, and the promise of daily pay, became an unattainable dream. Without my old phone number, access to that money was weeks away. Panic set in. Motel rent, bus fares, and Lyft rides had devoured my last dollars. A generous friend had already loaned me $200. The stark reality of homelessness loomed, a week away. Tears fell as I faced the terrifying unknown. But then, something unexpected happened. A flicker of determination ignited. I refused to be a victim. I started planning, researching, and preparing. Armed with an older Android, Google Maps, and a relentless spirit, I faced the day with a newfound sense of purpose. 

The morning was a blur of packing and farewells. The bus ride to the city center was a sweaty ordeal, filled with fear and uncertainty. Yet, I followed my plan, arriving at the first homeless shelter. Inside, I found air conditioning, food, water, and a sense of relief. As the day wore on, I explored the city, meeting others who shared my plight. There was a camaraderie, a sense of community that surprised me. And amidst the struggle, I discovered an unexpected source of support: religious organizations. I’ve never been particularly religious, but the kindness and compassion I witnessed from these groups was overwhelming. They provided food, water, and a safe place to rest. Their actions spoke volumes about their faith, and I found myself developing a newfound respect for their work. As the sun began to set, I found a safe spot to sleep. Exhausted but determined, I drifted off, filled with a strange sense of peace. I had survived the first day. Tomorrow is a new day, and I'll face it with courage and resilience. I’ve learned that even in the darkest of times, there is hope, strength, and a surprising amount of human kindness.

What Would You Keep? A Journey of Loss and Discovery

Have you ever considered the possessions you'd cling to in sudden upheaval? This thought experiment invites you to confront the fragility of material things and the enduring power of what truly matters.

Imagine a world turned upside down. You must flee your home, grasping only what you can carry. The challenge? Limiting yourself to just three items. These could be tangible objects, digital treasures, or even abstract concepts. Take a moment to envision your choices.

Now, a cruel twist of fate: one item must be left behind. Which one? The decision is yours to make. As you relinquish this possession, explore the emotions that arise. What does this item symbolize? How does it contribute to your sense of self?

The journey continues, fraught with adversity. You find refuge, lose it, and face the elements alone. A storm rages, claiming one of your remaining items. The final blow comes in the form of theft, leaving you with nothing.

This exercise is a stark portrayal of life's unpredictability. It challenges us to question our priorities and reevaluate what truly enriches our lives. Material possessions, while comforting, are ultimately impermanent. Perhaps it's time to invest in experiences, relationships, and personal growth – elements that withstand the test of time.

As you reflect on this thought experiment, consider the items you chose and the emotions they evoked. Did you find it difficult to let go? What did this exercise reveal about your values and priorities? Sharing your insights can spark meaningful conversations and deepen your understanding of what truly matters.

Remember, while possessions can bring joy, it's the intangible aspects of life that create lasting fulfillment. By confronting the possibility of loss, we gain a profound appreciation for the richness that exists beyond the material world.

 References

https://www.humankindwichita.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Sleep-Out-ICTToolkit.pdf

The High Priestess: A Dive into the Subconscious

The High Priestess, the second card of the Major Arcana, is often shrouded in mystery and intrigue. This enigmatic figure represents a gateway to the subconscious mind, intuition, and the divine feminine. But what does this mean psychologically? Let's delve deeper.

The Psychological Significance

Intuition and Inner Wisdom: At its core, the High Priestess symbolizes the power of intuition. It's a call to trust your gut feelings, to listen to the quiet voice within that often knows things the conscious mind can't fathom. This card encourages you to tap into your inner wisdom, to connect with your deeper self.

The Subconscious Mind: The High Priestess is often associated with the subconscious, that vast, unexplored ocean of our psyche. It suggests exploring your dreams, memories, and repressed emotions. There might be valuable insights hidden beneath the surface waiting to be discovered.

The Divine Feminine: While not exclusive to women, the High Priestess embodies the divine feminine energy. This energy is associated with receptivity, intuition, nurturing, and creativity. It's about embracing the softer, more intuitive aspects of yourself.

Balance and Patience: The High Priestess often appears when you're at a crossroads or facing a significant decision. It's a reminder to pause, reflect, and trust your inner guidance. This card encourages patience and a willingness to wait for the right answer.

When the High Priestess Appears in Your Life

If you've drawn the High Priestess in a tarot reading, it might be a sign that:

• You're being called to trust your intuition more.
• You need to spend more time alone and in quiet reflection.
• There's a need to balance your masculine and feminine energies.
• You're on the cusp of a spiritual awakening or a deeper understanding of yourself.

Remember: The High Priestess is not about being passive or indecisive. It's about gathering information from within before taking action. It's about tapping into a deeper well of wisdom and knowledge within you.