An Unpopular Oracle

A lesson from the 10 of Pentacles

Sometimes the real work we’re called to on to perform has nothing to do with our job. When we feel put out and frustrated by an older relative demanding help with a menial task, or a friend having a life crisis; when the demand for our time, attention and wisdom makes us feel angry or resentful because of the “work” we’re not getting done, it’s important to consider which “work” it is we’re actually called on to do.

In the big picture, completing a meaningless task for a paycheck is probably not actually our karmic responsibility. No one is laying on their deathbed thinking, “boy, I wish I had completed more of those TPS reports on time.” No one is attending their parent’s funeral full of regret over spending all those weekends with mom instead of working more overtime.

I’m having lunch with a friend today, she is experiencing a significant marital crisis. We’ve talked at length about it and I feel that I’ve probably overstepped my bounds, like way waaaayyyy overstepped my bounds, over-pontificating my “visions” regarding her problems.

My gift, when it turns on, is that I can look right into someone’s brain based on a handful of details, easily identifying markers that spell success or doom. It doesn’t take much. Were they salty about paying for dinner? Say no more, that’s all I need to know.

The problem is that once I’ve tuned in, the information floods my over me and speaking with the certainty of Christ incarnate, I won’t shut up and I won’t back down. It’s usually not what they want to hear but I’m a thirsty bitch that thrives on opportunities to say “I told you so”. I’ve learned that being right doesn’t always make me popular.

Anyway, we’re having lunch today before she returns to the east coast for six months. She says she has no plans to return before the fall and, without a more lengthy explanation, I take that to mean what I told her likely proved to be true.

This meeting will have a negative impact on my ability to get actual work done but maybe that work doesn’t matter as much as showing up to support my friend. Maybe I’ll tone down the crystal ball today.

Like the 10 of Pentacles, we are called on to be generous – not just with money but with wisdom. Take the time to provide guidance to those who are struggling even it makes you an unpopular oracle.