Metaphors

Metaphors for the Month: Nothing But the Truth

By Suzanne Wagner

An open mind lets personal truth evolve.
by Suzanne Wagner
Arthurian Tarot: Lancelot In Exile   
Mayan Oracle: Ahau, Unity
Aleister Crowley: Universe, Emperor, The Devil
Medicine Cards: Elk, Porcupine
Osho Zen Tarot: Creativity, Adventure   
Healing Earth Tarot: Ten of Pipes, Justice
Ancient Egyptian Tarot: Prince of Cups, Ace of Cups
Words of Truth: Truth, Words of Truth, Mind

In May, the word "truth" activates aspects within the mind as we expand beyond previous parameters of understanding. Truth is defined in Webster's dictionary as "the conformity of assertion to fact or reality." A particular fact or reality is true to us when we align with that belief or perception.

That does not mean it is actually true.

In this beautiful spring, we go on a quest to examine our true feelings. This is a time of recuperation to slowly find a way to center within. Consult the wisdom within, as all the answers one seeks must be found inside. This is the only way the kernels of truth within our lives be understood and fully realized.

When another's perceptions conflict with what we believe is our truth or reality, we experience conflicts and the feeling of not being understood. Our minds cannot readily align the differing truths, and we tend to reject others' feedback as pointless and inaccurate. Contracting to protect our truth, we may stop and fall into patterns of brooding and depression, sometimes dismissing sound and accurate advice.

This does not mean that everything anyone says to you is true.

I prefer to think of myself as a cow. A cow eats the grass and chews it slowly to break down the nutrients. It puts the grass in its first stomach and brings it up over and over again to get the good nutrition out. The grass moves into the second stomach when the cow has taken all the nutrition and separated out the worthless filler.

Dealing with others' beliefs and perceptions of us could be handled the same way. We need to take all the information in and sort it out. We need to break it down to find the kernel of truth held within. Sometimes only a small bit of truth hides within an enormous amount of filler. That filler could be the other person's personality issues, personal problems, experiences, fears, upsets and beliefs. Learning how to find the truth and let go of the garbage is a great challenge, especially when you are reevaluating your own truths and beliefs at the same time.

Learning how to drop the masks and pretenses we use to protect our fragile egos can be difficult. But only when you are ready to do this can you begin the true search for your soul.

Our personal truths are like the roots of a tree. When strong winds blow in our life, our roots or truths keep us grounded and stable. Sometimes that grounding rests in having enough confidence and stamina within to navigate complex waters and unify oneself in life's creative adventure.

Wars and conflicts are an extension of groups with different truths not knowing or being able to step out of their personal truth to observe reality from other angles. Choosing to be open and innocent gives space to maneuver through the complex twists and narrow passageways of change. The creativity within that wants to learn how to connect with others is our best guide in these circumstances.

Life ultimately requires usng the balance of inherent creative wonder and innocence with learned wisdom and confidence to move with fluidity and grace.

So for the month of May, do not dismiss new perceptions and awareness. Find that kernel of truth. It may take a minute. Be patient. Remember, truth constantly evolves as your awareness expands and takes more and more information in.

If someone wants to know what is true for you, just say, "This is what is true for me now in this moment." Be open and eager to hear more. You will greatly benefit from integrating other experiences and perceptions.

Suzanne Wagner (suzannewagner.com) is the author of numerous books and CDs on the tarot. She lives in Salt Lake City.

This article was originally published on April 30, 2007.