The number 4 symbolizes earthly reality, basic structure and orientation, and stability - think of the 4 seasons, 4 directions and 4 elements of earth, air, fire and water.  Swords represent reason, thought, logic, will, courage, verbal skill, matters pertaining to the mind and survival in the world and the element of air.  Traditionally this card symbolizes a need to withdraw oneself and recharge your batteries.  The 4 of Swords can represent acting on what you think; publicly manifesting your philosophy and communicating your point of view.  It can indicate explaining an idea, saying what you think or writing what you've outlined.  Or perhaps you are acting out the lifestyle or schedule that you've envisioned and planned.

The woman on the Shining Tribe 4 of Birds sits on the side of a cliff with a bird mask or headdress.  She is nude and seems relaxed and at ease as three large birds head her way.  The brilliant yellow sun illuminates the cloudless sky overhead.  I get the sense that she is some sort of priestess who communes with the birds for her good and the good of her people.  She seeks wisdom and guidance from the birds and bringing it back to the tribe.  Perhaps she is resting for a moment while awaiting a message from the birds.  Or perhaps she is conserving her strength in anticipation of the trek back down the mountain.  The key seems to be pausing to appreciate and integrate the message of the divine.

The man sitting in the Druid Craft 4 of Swords is muscular and determined looking.  He has a sword resting across his lap while 3 more rest, points up, next to him.  He is nestled in a crevasse at the base of a large tree.  Something about him speaks of focus and energy - as though he could change quickly from thoughtful ponderer to fierce, implacable warrior.  Despite the fact that three swords are resting with their hilts on the ground, you get the feeling that he could grasp one and put it to use in moments.  He is not hiding or fearful, he almost seems to be pausing to reflect and conserve his thoughts and energies before moving forward and facing the next challenge that awaits. 

Another important lesson that I sometimes miss - it is beneficial and crucial to pause between challenges in order to strategically plan your next move and conserve your resources.  I don't mind the resting part but I'm not as active in the strategic planning as I might be.  In fact it's probably the main reason I get stuck in place quite a bit.  I know what I should do but never actually get my act together and create a plan.  I suppose in many ways I've been lucky because I've managed to stumble along and do well for myself but it's never been especially directed. 

That's what I need to do - create my own vision quest that will allow me to pause and reflect on what I need to do next.  I have this wonderful tool that allows me to connect with the divine and hear messages from the Universe but I'm not using it effectively.  Instead I record the messages but don't actually do anything with them.  Things have to change because as time goes on I realize I need to plan what steps I want to take next in my life.  Otherwise I'll be stumbling along following the same pattern I have been, and that has already proven not to be the best route for me.