The Ten of Pentacles illustrates an old man, watching his family, they appear wealthy and well cared for. The ten pentacles are over the image on the card, as if to overlay what is happening. This card often symbolizes abundance, success, comfort. This can be financial, material, spiritual, or other joys such as family and friends.
When I reflected upon this card, it made me think about what the world has been going through the past year. People staying at home, maybe feeling cooped up, our patience tested by being with our families more than usual. But through this, there may have been a renewal of a bond between them. A rediscovery of each other. A joy found that was temporarily put on hold prior to March 2020 because of work and other commitments.
The old man in the Ten of Pentacles is separated from his family. He is sitting down, petting his dog, and observing from a distance his daughter/daughter-in-law and son/son-in-law with his grandchild. Although his dog does give him some comfort, there is a loneliness there. The rest of his family may be starting to venture out. When will it be his turn? He may no longer want to observe through phone calls or Zoom. He wants to be with his family again. He wants to laugh, hug, and be with them in person.
As the vaccine is being distributed, and cases of the virus go down, families can hopefully gather together again and feel safe and comfortable as things get to more of a sense of normal. That abundance and comfort is needed by many families who have strong ties, and protect and support each other.
