Thumbs – responsibility is freedom
The oxymoron ‘responsibility is freedom’ is fascinating in its truth. When I felt more grim than gay about applying my attention to this self-imposed, self-elected discipline of writing this article, I began wondering about what it is within us that composes the connecting divide between thought and action.
From whence the yes within us, that which generates the energy, and motivates for thoughts to become deeds? When we do the necessary, we feel an ease of tension, a sense of being accountable for having done the next right thing. Why then are some of us so seemingly unable to use our volition in ways that afford a sense of space, of freedom, even of peace? Why do we procrastinate, seemingly unable to harness our will, even when knowing that when we apply the ‘just do it’ principle, we feel aligned, and in integrity with ourselves? In analysing hands, how do we determine traits of self-discipline?
There are many different hand features which reflect how we might direct our will, or not. With fire being our element of activity, it goes without saying that people with fire shaped hands (oblong palms with short fingers) and a slightly rough skin texture are ‘doers’. Short fingers show a call to action, as do flattish mounts. Deep, clear earth (life) and minor earth (fate) lines are positive markers for diligence and accountability. Lines rising from earth (life) lines show positive efforts being made.
People with big, soft hands (in relation to their height) tend to be lazy. Too much flexibility (excess water) also weakens the will. I find people with soft, malleable hands will apply themselves, but not without a lot of moaning and groaning, as too much water indicates their feeling easily overwhelmed. The presence of serious intent loops (between middle and ring fingers) reveal a work ethic, and a distaste for procrastination.
But it is the forms of our thumbs, long known as ‘the rulers of the hands’, that are key to the degree of our discipline, will and action. Although my thumbs are large and masculine looking, I love them. For me, my thumbs represent the determination and focus that for over 20 years I’ve applied to the study of hands.
Think of thumbs in terms of “I want, I can, and I will”. The base of the thumb (Venus mount) represents our desires (I want), the water (lower) phalange ‘holds’ reason (I can), and thumb tips (fire) reveal determination (I will).
Astonishingly, there are at least ten criteria that determine the strength or weakness of thumbs. Chirologists look to the relative length of the two phalanges, the general flexibility, the set i.e. the level on which they protrude, the angle of opening (called ‘the angle of confidence’), the length and breadth, the tip shape, any bar or activation lines on the phalanges, the rotation, and, of course, the glyphs. Whorls and arches strengthen thumbs, whereas loops show a more emotion based approach to application of will. In understanding your thumbs, you’ll have insight into your modus operandi, your way of applying yourself in the world.
So-called weak thumbs, or any other of your hand markers which might suggest a dragging application of function, ought not be a source of self-condemnation. Instead your blueprint calls for self-compassion. Look at yourself with soft, understanding eyes, and always do your best, for as Osho says “Responsibility and freedom go together. If you don’t want to take responsibility, you can’t have freedom either. The two come together or they go together. If you shun responsibility, you have to accept slavery in some way or other. ”