The reading begins with a poignant reminder to be aware of the ways in which information influences emotionality. When we look around to observe, perceive, and learn, it is vital to understand that our emotions are a filter that influences how we process what we know. Rather than allowing information to pull us in all directions, there is a better way, a middle way. One that is emotionally intelligent and intelligently emotional. From this place of balanced understanding, it is easier to know that what wells up from our dreams is a representation of who we are actually are: A person who deserves to be treated with respect and care. If we have filtered the learning and understanding to a high degree, then we can move confidently in the direction of our goals. In treating oneself as preciously as platinum, we instruct others in how to do the same. Where as the Gold Rule is externally focused – and often fixated on sacrifice – the Platinum Rule gives us the ability to share of ourselves from a place of abundance, rather than impoverishing sacrifice. Once all this is understood, the moment has come to act. You know you are well informed, you trust your intent, and you share without sacrificing – now go! Do that which has been sifted, cleaned, and checked for impurities. Act knowing that it is an accurate expression of yourself. In manifesting your will, it becomes clear that you see your purpose and accept it to be good.

The reading opens with a reminder that true friendship is a rare and beautiful light that nourishes us, and gives us the energy we need to thrive and put forth fruitful harvests. The cards then remind us that we are freed of our guilt, and that this happens by way of the connections we make. We learn from other people not only when we have erred, but how we can make amends and continue to grow. Coming out of these conversations and interactions we learn more about our moral drivers and motivations. The Sage makes an appearance to remind us that sometimes we learn the most when we take moments of silence to reflect and consider what we have done, said, or thought. And during these meditative times, the decks wanted us to remember that curiosity and deep analysis are vital for understanding everything we are trying to accomplish.

The context for today’s reading is the idea of how our emotions intersect with how we express ourselves. As with the instruments in a band or symphony, the meaning the plays out with our expression changes based on intention. The same metal flute with the same air moving through it can play the same notes an infinite number of ways, and that is one way to think about how our emotions color our words. Remember that you might not play the same melody in the same way on a different day, and take responsibility for the consequences of what you put out into the world. When your words cause a reversal for yourself others, remember to clear the rubble from your third eye to perceive better what has happened and why. Allow new information and understanding to reform your context and intent, then use that rubble to build something new and wonderful. The stones from a Roman ruin can be used to build a cathedral. You are that cathedral, that progress in work, that project that takes a lifetime. It is the living that matters, even more than the tasks themselves. As the storms come and go, as they will forever, remember your cathedral can withstand them. With each storm, you make repairs. You stay out of your own way, and allow yourself the grace to realize that guilt and shame are distractions once their lessons have been learned. If there is grief, consider how it might be a hole, and you can fill it with anything you want. What building material will you choose?