“Rejection - and the fear of rejection - is the biggest impediment we face to choosing ourselves.” - James Altucher.
Element of air power: The Three of Swords card displays a heart that is pierced by three swords. Above the pierced heart are heavy rain clouds and there is a heavy downpour in the background. Watery clouds signify tears and the force of the wind that will bring change in the mind. The symbolism is very literal and emotional.
The heart denotes warmth, affection and spirit, while the three swords indicate the power to harm, cause pain, and create suffering to what they pierce. This is an image of grief, loss and literally, heartbreak. The clouds and rain depict the surrounding grimness of the situation. All these symbols point to the Three of Swords showing a low point in one's life.
This card depicts the message of rejection, betrayal, hurt and discouragement. In moments like these, we are well served by the mind if we can think logically about the situation and be prepared for the experience. It is important to see that the depiction, or drawing, of the situation may be dramatic to emphasize the feeling of rejection. It is equally important to see that although it is cold and painful to face rejection, we can choose how to respond to the rejection, given that the heart is very boldly emphasized in the drawing and almost as big as the swords piercing it.
It is also important to realize that pain and grief are normal experiences in life, as they also teach us how to appreciate the joy and happiness we have. It is through pain that we learn to avoid mistakes that could lead us into danger and grief. Pain is therefore a necessity in the journey of life. Thus, the Three of Swords becomes a depiction of suffering that is meant to make us stronger, more careful and more vigilant.
At times of imbalance: You may be still recovering from this rejection, and your emotions have not completely calmed, making it difficult to move on. Although you may still be thinking of your past suffering, this card may be a signal that it's time to let go and look forward towards life ahead of you, because there is much for you to enjoy. Many don’t see this, and they end up being immersed in their own pain for too long, delaying their own recovery process. Don’t focus too much on what happened, renew your emotions and gather your courage. Know that all difficult moments pass - they are not there to stay, and when we fall, we can also rise again.
Medicine: Each little piece of suffering you encounter serves as a stepping stone to find a deeper meaning in this world. This card comes at a time when you need to prepare yourself for this next stage in life. While the grief may be extremely hurtful, it will enable you to move from the past and focus on your future, knowing that you have control of what actions you take in the present.
Don’t dwell so much on what is troubling you. Instead, focus on what is approaching because you determine your fate.
Mantra: I am healing my broken heart.
