Day 10/12

We are drawing near to the end of the 12 Days of Dreaming—it’s Day Ten.

The tenth day of Yule, or Winter Solstice, marks a pivotal moment of celebration across cultures, uniting us in a shared reverence for the rebirth of the sun after the year’s longest night. This day honors the promise of renewal, a gentle yet powerful reminder that even in the darkest moments, the light will always return. As we observe the cycles of nature, we are invited to align with their wisdom, embracing the ebb and flow of life with trust and grace.

On this sacred day, we also reflect on the virtue of Justice. Justice is the balance we seek not only in the world around us but also within ourselves. It asks us to evaluate our actions and choices, ensuring they reflect fairness, integrity, and alignment with our higher values. Like the sun’s inevitable return, Justice reminds us that balance is an ever-present force, even when it feels out of reach. This day calls us to embody fairness in our lives and bring light to the world in our unique way.

It’s also a time to look ahead to October, the month of transformation and release. For October, I drew the Ten of Swords—a card that may initially appear grim but carries a profound and necessary lesson.

Ten of Swords: Ruin

Tens in tarot represent completion, and swords are the suit of the mind. The Ten of Swords signifies a painful or abrupt ending, often one that feels sharp and cutting, with little promise of relief on the other side. This is the end of a cycle—a rock-bottom moment. In traditional depictions, the card shows a figure pierced by ten swords, symbolizing deep pain, despair, and often mental exhaustion.

Yet, it’s important to note the exaggeration here: one sword would have sufficed. The additional swords remind us that much of the suffering associated with this card is amplified by our own thoughts. This is where the Ten of Swords speaks directly to me. It asks us to confront how we might be making a painful situation worse by clinging to fear, indulging in negative self-talk, or adopting a martyr mentality.

In light of last month’s card, the Eight of Swords, I see this as an opportunity to challenge my tendency to overwork, overthink, or over-schedule when I’m caught in a mental spiral. I’ve learned that this pattern—overdoing in an attempt to punish or “fix” myself—is one that no longer serves me. The Ten of Swords invites me to release it.

And while the ending this card represents may feel final, it also clears the way for a new beginning. If you look closely, you’ll see the first light of dawn breaking in the background. This isn’t just an ending; it’s a transformation.

The Ten of Swords asks: How are you handling your pain? Are you making it worse than it needs to be? It challenges us to check our mindset and reminds us that surrendering to what’s ending can be the most freeing choice of all.

Affirmation:

“I release what no longer serves me, trusting that every ending paves the way for a new beginning filled with light and possibility.”

Always,
Your Trusted Friend ✨