The FOOL has stepped off a rock into an ocean. The rock is inscribed with a petroglyph maze-type symbol; to me it is symbolic of a journey within. The fool has a cool tattoo on his abdomen as well as some red and blue butterfly-ish painting on his face. In fact, he wears a huge set of butterfly wings! He also chases a beautiful green butterfly.

His expression is joyful; his arms wide open. I think it's significant that heHAS STEPPED off; he's committed; there's no turning back. There's more tension, suspense, because of this; there's no chance that he's going to change his mind or look down and notice the cliff.

And the dog sure ain't gonna stop him! This little Jack Russell terrier, with his own set of wings, has jumped right off as well! (To me, a suggestion to be aware that your actions may have impacts, for good or bad, on others)

And what awaits the fool? Well, his wings might carry him... or he might step softly onto the beach (the water is very shallow here, gently lapping up onto the shore)... but it really looks like he's gonna step right into that open crocodile's mouth (alligator??).

But wait...a hand extends from the open mouth, offering a flower! Is that the last person who dared, and took that leap, showing him that once you get past the pain, the reward is worth it??

From the "BWB" (Extensively edited)

"And so it is. The Fool is born and the journey of life begins. The Fool dances, bounces, chases butterflies, and tweaks the dragon's tail, all to please the infinite spirit inside him. Unpracticed and a little out of tune, the Fool is the essence of expanded possibility. Practicality bores him."

The book also notes...

...the little dog is struggling to keep up

...magic watches over the fool; the sky responds to his openness, protecting, perhaps even lending the butterfly wings to whisk him out of harms way

...the crocodile represents cynicism

...the petroglyph is a Hopi labyrinth map

...the "crocodile" can only mold the Fool's innocence, not destroy it.

Divinitory meanings: Congratulations! Step out, take a chance; do you hear the nagging voices of naysayers? Are some of those voices in your own head? Follow your heart's joy. Be optimistic about the outcome of a risky venture. Invite frivolity. Wear something weird to work, sing as you walk down the street, laugh too loudly at a party. Be also aware that the Fool is pure, unlimited energy. He will exhaust you and your finances if you don't wisely combine his desire for newness with your own hard-earned lessons. Without the foolishness of risk taking, nothing is ever begun."

"And so it is"

Blessings,

Janet