In the middle of our walk of life, I found myself within a forest dark, for the straightforward pathway had been lost. - Dante, The Divine Comedy Known also as the Prophet of the Eternal and Magus of the Voice of Power, the 
card of The Hermit is ruled by Virgo. Virgo is concerned with personal service, health and creating order and meaning. You have lost your voice and your personal power by being too much out there in the world. When The Hermit turns up with his lantern, he is telling you that you need a period of self-reflection, quietude and getting back to the Source. The light needs to be turned within. External concerns for you have scattered your energies, and stolen your energy. You need to withdraw and rebuild your resources so that you can turn up in the world with strength and love. The Hermit is shown solitary and deep in isolation in the forest with only a lantern and a staff to help him find his way. The isolated forest is a symbol for the unconscious, or entering into that unknown aspect of our psyche which has the ability to both enrich and terrify. Willingly entering this territory is a great feat and a sign of the culmination of maturity - it is the willingness to undergo individuation and is really in essence, coming home to one's true nature, shedding the persona that we have previously relied on falsely to face the world in order to fit in. A time of quietude and meditation is needed to connect to our own Soul and this task should never be feared. The reward for undertaking this task willingly is far greater than any cache of gold or diamonds. At this time you will discover that diversions that previously engaged you are now tedious and annoying, and you yearn for something more meaningful and fulfilling, It is time to take the journey with the Hermit, the inner guide and trust your own guidance. You may not yet see it, but it is a call to discover a deeper meaning for your life. Image "The Hermit" wildcat-studios.com
