The number 3 symbolizes the generative force, creative power, multiplicity, and forward movement.  They are about planning and preparing, putting the details into place before beginning the work.  Pentacles are associated with the material world, acquisitions of wealth and possessions, our connection to Earth and Nature, sensation, matters pertaining to the physical plane, the body, health and physical or sexual activities.  Pentacles can also be connected with practicality, groundedness and being realistic.  The 3 of Pentacles represent sharpening professional ability; successful effort using creative and practical skills; and new undertakings that bring material rewards.

Today instead of considering the traditional meaning of the card I looked at the image.  The first thing that struck me on the Deviant Moon 3 of Pentacles is that the 3 figures appear to be working on each other.  Each seems to be carving or whittling away at one of the other figures in the card.  At first it struck me as vaguely creepy but then I thought about it more.  I realized that in reality that is what we all do in our relationships with others.  We rub off on them; we change them whether we intend to or not.  Consider how many times over the course of your life you have changed your mind about a previously held belief because of a friend's explanation?  How many times have you been forced to open your horizons a bit more because of something a friend exposes you too?  How many times have we found our prejudices exploded because we learn a friend is one of "them" - gay, Republican, Wiccan, etc.  It may not happen overnight but eventually bits and pieces of other people rub off on us or wear away at various petrified parts of ourselves.

This process is not always easy and it may not be painless either but it can be inevitable.  It remind me of the statement I read once that the Grand Canyon was formed by hundreds or thousands of years of erosion caused by a little stream of water.  Think of what kind of impact someone with whom we have a connection can have on us over the course of a relationship.  I know in my own life my husband and I continue to have an impact on each other.  We have changed each other over time (hopefully for the best).  Because of his influence I am more comfortable standing on my convictions and have learned some simple things about car repair. 

Thanks to my hobbies (specifically Tarot cards and doll collecting) I have met people from various walks of life and have learned to be more tolerant and less judgmental (or at least I am becoming able to move passed my initial judgment).  It doesn't matter if people are gay, straight, single, coupled or polyamorous they are still worth knowing and offering something that enriches my life.  And the more open I am to new ideas and new experiences, the more I can offer them to others in turn.  It becomes a gift I can offer to the world and the more open I am to what the world can offer me.