Father of Wands (Reversed)

I pulled the Father of Wands reversed (also known as the King of Wands in many decks)—and it read me for filth in the most compassionate way.

It named a truth I’ve known for years: I love being the creative visionary in my work, but I haven’t always known how to lead others toward that vision. I carry these ideas close. They’ve sat with me, evolved with me, and become part of how I move through the world. So when it’s time to invite others in, I get scared. Scared it won’t be done right. Scared the vision will blur. Scared that letting go means losing control.

Launching this summer enrichment program has stretched me. It’s taught me that leadership isn’t about control—it’s about trust. And honestly? Sometimes I don’t trust. Not because I don’t believe in people, but because I’m still learning how to let go without losing myself. That’s where the ego creeps in—passive-aggressive thoughts, moments where I catch myself subtly posturing. Never loud, but loud enough when I sit down and reflect.

I don’t want to lead from fear. I don’t want to disempower people. That’s never been my heart. What I want is to lead with people, not in spite of them. To build something beautiful and sustainable—not just ambitious and exhausting.

When the card suggested I lean into Buddhist principles, it felt like divine timing. I’ve just started reading Start Where You Are by Pema Chödrön, and I created a list of journal prompts to help me sit with these lessons—gently, honestly, intentionally.

I’m sharing them here in case they meet you where you are too.

Guiding Journal Prompts - Start Where You Are.pdf

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Use them however you’d like. Just offering up a piece of my process, in case it lights a little path for someone else too.

—Jessica Nichole, PhD