Since this blog is about tarot, the PAVA Process and self-development, I thought I might start connecting the dots.

One of the most important parts of the PAVA Process is the Visual Approach (the VA in PAVA). When you look at something, what do you see? I like to use the tarot because the deck is full of archetypes.

Two people looking at the same card in the tarot deck will probably see that card differently. Each will pick out aspects of the card that the other may find unimportant or may not immediately see.

If I’m looking at the Fool, for instance, what is my visual approach? Do I see a young man, a boy, a girl in boy’s clothes, a traveler, a jester type person or maybe a comic book figure? Do I interpret the dog as being his, or a stray that followed him? Do I see the little details on his pack?

Am I aware of the snow-covered peaks in the background? Do I notice that in his current location there is no snow, and that he is dressed for a more temperate climate?

What do all these things remind me of? What do they say about me? What am I projecting into that little picture that is part of my psyche?

How about a couple of examples, just for fun?

Next: My personal Visual Approach to The Fool

 

The Fool – My Visual Approach:

Let’s say I’m looking at this card this way: A regular guy in some unknown historical context is going off on a trip with not much baggage but his little white dog. I’m not going into any of the esoteric symbols, just what I see on the surface.

First — What does this Visual Approach spark in my mind? It could be something that suddenly strikes me about the picture, or a memory or something entirely new. The visual approach today could be completely different tomorrow.

When I look at this card today I think of the times I spent traveling in my Jeep with my dog, Beau.

One late night we were driving toward the mountains. As the full moon rose in the sky ahead it seemed to light our way forward on the dark lonely road. There was a sense of pleasure in the moment and the anticipation of something wonderful at our destination. As the moon rose, the black world suddenly turned into a beautifully muted silver.

As we drove into the night the moon seemed to accompany us. It would hide behind a mountain or trees and then peek out as if to say, “Here I am.  I’m still with you.”

The Fool card tells me to look for possibilities, that the journey may be more interesting than the destination. This card also reminds me of the value of companionship and trust.

Next – What is my Practical Action?

 

My personal Practical Action based on The Fool

For me personally, the Fool tells me to go ahead with my personal dreams – that dreams are possible. I can turn the dreams into real goals.

My Practical Action steps are to form a plan and to let nothing stand it my way. The plan or direction may change but I will keep moving toward my goals. I will have challenges, but love and faith will get me there. Keep going; keep believing; enjoy the journey!

And now another Fool quote:

“The cleverest of all, in my opinion is the man who calls himself a fool at least once a month.” Fyodor Dostoevsky