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.

"You are clarifying the kind of security needs that you really have.  You're defining the things that give you that inner sense of safety and groundedness.  You're preparing to take action that will make you feel more connected with the earth." - Gail Fairfield

The 3 of Earth from the Gaian Tarot is one of my favorite cards in that absolutely lovely deck.  The 3 women working in the kitchen seem to be having a joyful, wonderful time together.  The  kitchen is filled with herbs, garlic, spices and other goodies.  It has a very earthy, welcoming feel to it.  In fact I wish my kitchen looked like that.  More than the surroundings, what I really respond to is the sense of camaraderie between these women.  This is not some type of obligatory, expected act of cooking together.  These women know that when they combine their energies in the kitchen, magic happens.  Perhaps the older woman taught one or both of the others to cook or maybe they are friends who enjoy each other's company.  They seem to be making teas and tinctures rather than a meal; something to heal body and soul.  As someone who considers herself something of a kitchen witch, I love the energy that shimmers off this card.  

The figure on the Sacred Rose 3 of Pentacles seems  justifiably proud of his work.  He has carved three lovely, shining pentacles in the archway behind him and now stands confident of the reception it will receive.  There is an element of arrogance in his stance,  as though he is so sure that others will give him positive feedback, that it seems to reinforce his youth.  That kind of confidence is often exhibited only among the young.  Regardless of his age, he has a right to be proud.

Looking at these cards one of the things that struck me is that sense of pride in one's accomplishments; that sense of satisfaction one feels from completing a challenging task.  Sometimes I think that the reason I am afraid to ask for assistance (as I discussed yesterday) is that I'm unsure of my own skills and talents.  For so long I hid my light under a basket because they often alienated people.  So I started playing them down or not bringing them up at all.  The way my ego dealt with this was to deny it ever needed assistance.  So perhaps my message for today is to celebrate and acknowledge  my talents,  skills and accomplishments; share them with others and occasionally boast (in a positive way of course).  I have to become  more comfortable with being proud of my accomplishments but not in an obnoxious way.  Of course my tendency to be sarcastic and a smart aleck about things also means people might not take me as seriously as they should, but that I can live with.