I think of the way he says the words
“Hattori Hanzo Steel”
like it’s a blessing,
This pinnacle of middle way,
of balance
Of a temper tempered
Before it gets a chance to flare.
Perhaps a singe,
but no immolation this time.

Lessons are best learned by mistakes made.

He gives me the courage to make mistakes.
Watching my pendulum swing,
patient.

A sculptor sees the art which already exists,
Even when the art doesn’t know itself yet.

He sees me
the way Anne Sullivan saw Helen Keller
Not with anything so obvious as eyes.
He sees the art,
the potential,
the keen edge of creativity
That just requires a little
Tempering.

Today’s deck is Our Tarot by Sarah Shipman and it might be one of my favourites.