The Fool (Upright) | Tarot Card of the Day
“Risking looking like a fool.”
The Fool is the archetype of freedom, humor, and positive new adventures. He is the wayward hero of the Tarot, the embodiment of the young hero just getting started on his quest. He is the only card numbered "0" in the deck. This means that he is not attached to any "identity" that he must prove to others. He's not the "King of this," or the "Knight of that." He's just "a fool," simple, unencumbered by worry, and completely free to go where he chooses. The Fool's wisdom lies in his lack of pride and ego. He never despairs if he doesn't look "competent." That's just another box he would hate to be suffocated in. He's not afraid if people laugh at him. He laughs at himself! This humor gives him an inexhaustible resilience. It also carries magical healing powers, for himself and others.
Are you ever afraid of looking stupid?
Can you laugh at yourself as you haphazardly try to learn something new? Is there an unrealized dream you still have, but you are too scared to go for it?
The Fool knows that people who buy into maintaining an image limit themselves to a self-imposed box to suffocate in. That's not living! The Fool is open and curious, journeying wherever he dares. The Fool can never be boxed in, kept, or defined by others. He represents the wild and rebellious part of your nature. He goes his own path. The sun is shining, and his spirits are soaring. He is wearing the ugliest pattern this side of creation. It brings him great joy to flaunt it. He loves to shock onlookers as he passes by. If he gets happiness from it, that's all that matters. After all, it's not like he's hurting anyone.
The Fool has packed his travel bag, emblazoned with the symbol of an eagle. Eagles represent Spirit and higher perspective. The Fool is on a spiritual journey. This is also reinforced by the color white that appears so prevalently on the card. White is the color of purity, innocence and spiritual light. The Fool’s rose is white, his loyal dog is white, even the sun shining down on the Fool is white. The Fool prompts you to perceive the journey spread before you through the luminous eyes of your own Spirit.
The Fool doesn't seem to be paying any attention to the possibility of future calamities. His head is occupied with the thrilling possibilities of the day. Could he be in danger of going over the edge of the cliff? Possibly, but maybe that would be fun, he never actually died before. The Fool knows an important secret: Things are never as bad as they might appear. Somehow, he always manages to get back up again unscathed. The Universe has a soft spot for fools and blesses them with the craziest luck. The Fool also wears a wreath around his cap. This symbol features prominently on the final card in the Major Arcana, the World. Although we begin with the Major Arcana with the Fool, the wreath implies that he will go the distance and reach his destination. The Fool already possesses the symbol for victory and completion, even at the beginning. Knowing this, you realize he really isn’t in danger after all. You also have everything you need to achieve a victorious completion of your journey.
When the Fool appears, he is calling you toward a new adventure.
It's time to escape from the confines of ruts and routines. What are you afraid of plunging into? What would make your life feel lived? The Fool represents the need for taking risks. Even if others might think you are foolish for trying, it's time to throw your hat in the ring for your dream. Take an action toward your goal and don't overthink it. Just begin and momentum will follow. Leap into the unknown landscape of possibility.
Release your inner fool, for your heart's desire awaits! Abandon the self-consciousness that prevents you from appearing too enthusiastic in public. Release thoughts of "I really should do this." or "What will so-and-so think?" from your consciousness. Learn to laugh at yourself and the world. Remember that after all the work and worry of "crafting an image" for others, you are still a primate. Let go of fears that stem from the ego and over-concern you with how you appear to others. Find the sunny, warm, funny, innocent and optimistic spark that waits deep within you, and set it free! You will be much more fun to be around. When the Fool appears, approach your situation with optimism and humor.
The Fool gleefully whispers his words of wisdom to you: "Let go and cast off your fears of trying, of dying, and of looking stupid. They're cheating you out of a full life."
The Fool in a Love Reading
New Relationship
The Fool prefers to bond as a friend first. He can settle into a long-term relationship; however, he needs to feel unrestricted, or he will naturally rebel. There is a “wait and see” quality to this card. Although off to a good beginning, this card will caution that events need to play out a bit more. In the meantime, have fun!
Long Term Partnership
The Fool can appear when it’s time for a fresh start in a settled partnership. This card will encourage you to create new conditions for intimacy to reawaken. A new goal that both partners can get excited about such as an eagerly anticipated trip, a new home, or a shared interest can bring you closer together.
Seeking Romance
This card encourages less predictability. The Fool craves newness, lack of restriction and adventure. If you’ve fallen into a slump, it’s time to change-up the energy. The appearance of the Fool encourages travel, new friendships, and exciting new places. The Fool never seems to grow up, and so he could encourage you to be more playful.