The emperor card is power.
Power to determine ones destiny and to change ones trajectory. Power to make decisions and stand firm in those choices. A good Emperor does not fear judgement, they know who they are and what they need. They do not waver. Their responsibility to protect and provide guides their rule.
I believe I received this card to equally remind me of all that I am capable of, but also to let go of some of my need to “do what is right”.
My indecisiveness has maintained a large block in my work as an artist, a parent, a partner and even in finding myself. The anxiety, the hyper-vigilance, the ego-driven fear of making mistakes in all of these aspects are not the emperor at all. This pseudo-authority driven by what others think or what I am “supposed to do” that cloaks itself as responsibility forms cracks in the foundations of the structure they are supposed to set up for others to rely on.
The Emperor, to me, wears the weight of their responsibilities on their shoulders quite literally. Their riches and their robes are not lavish garments of status and influence, instead, every action, decision and mistake is on display at all times for their constituents. A constant reminder of who they are fighting for and a physical representation of their choices. The safety and health of their community, environment, their mind + body.
Its a delicate balance - to hold it all and to let it go, especially when its your ass on the line, but emperor energy is logical. It is about being prepared. It can back its arguments and withstand criticism. It’s transparent and it remembers what it is fighting for. Royalty can be a beautiful burden and that is what I aimed to showcase in my work with the emperor card. I think this card has made me take a look at what is really driving my decisions and has influenced me to tap into a new side of myself, apprehension by my side. It can be a lonely life up there on that throne but it’s a lot easier when you can sit comfortably with yourself.