Parting the Mists

This is a lovely card – and it certainly makes me think of fond childhood memories of running in the woods, climbing trees, working in the garden, and playing with my cousins. But this is more than about nostalgia. Perhaps an old friend is coming back into your life. Or something you’ve been working on for a long time is coming to pass finally. Or perhaps you need to look closely at your attachments to determine if they are healthy.

A lot to consider for such a pleasant-looking card! Blessings.

Six of Cups – In Ector’s Keeping

Meaning: Nostalgia. A time of reflection and reliving fond memories of bygone days. Drawing nourishment and comfort from recalling playful days of childhood. Old friend reenter one’s life, bringing pleasant surprises. Efforts of the past come to fruition. Happiness as a result of previous kindness. Meeting aspects of the past.

The card also indicates an unhealthy attachment to the past that prevents one from appreciating the present. Having to contend with frightening and debilitating memories of childhood. Insecurity and longing for protection.

The Story: In times past there were days of play.

After the marriage of Uther and Igraine, Morgause (or Anna) left her mother’s side and became the wife of King Lot. Morgan was placed in the care of the sisterhood of Avalon, and Arthur was hidden away by Merlin. The sage wisely kept the boy’s identify a secret, fearing those who would wish harm on Uther’s so. It was said that Merlin traveled to the home of Sir Ector and his family. This remote land and its loyal family made for a secure foster home for Arthur.

Fosterage was a common practice of the noble blood. Children would often stay with the foster family until they came of age, which was generally fourteen for girls and seventeen for boy.s

In the case of Arthur, no formal arrangements had been made, and some say that Ector and his wife knew not of Arthur’s royal blood. But on the bidding of Merlin, the family accepted the boy.

While in Ector’s keeping, Arthur enjoyed a freedom he would never know again. Most thought him just one of the many royal bastards (as did Arthur himself), which meant his movements were no more restricted than those of his foster brother Kay. Being no more privileged than his companions, Arthur’s childhood instilled him with a sense of fair play and honor. Kay and Arthur were given an education and made to study literature, foreign language, poetry, music, and the arts of war, after which they were free to roam and enjoy childhood pastimes.

Arthur was a likable boy who later cherished his years and friendship made while in the card of Sir Ector.

Legend: The Arthurian Tarot by Anna-Marie Ferguson