The King of Swords is a stern, methodical leader, secure in his authority. He calls for structure, routine and discipline and that you approach problems from a rational and intellectual point of view rather than an emotional one although he is rather the idealist, believing in the power of truth, justice, integrity and old fashioned morals. Unfortuantely this idealism can easily slip into been an authoritarian rather than an authority and to behaving in a tyrannical manner. The King of Swords reminds us to check ourselves when we are in a position of influence and to behave with respect and fairness to those who look up to us. He also tells us to walk a mile in other's shoes before we judge them and to not apply our code of ethics to other people.
Buffalo are one of Africa's famed "Big 5" animals. A distinguished place for a powerful creature that weighs up to 870kg and is known as one of the most dangerous on the continent. They are sociable creatures which live in large herds which are hierarchical and patriarchal although the direction the herd moves in is chosen by the females.
The mature dominant males protect the herd from predators and are unafraid to take on other creatures from lions and hyenas to humans. They fight and tussle with each other, but are benevolent leaders to the herd. Occasionally one of these fights involves one of the older males who will not hand over their crown been thrown out of the herd. These grandfathers which are known as Dagga boys (meaning Mud covered in Shona language) become extremely violent and territorial, guarding the water holes from predators and other buffalo alike. They remember their glory days and believe that they should still rule the herd - and like ageing dictators they get more bitter and entitled as time goes on.
We need to guard ourselves against becoming like one of them - to realize when someone on our team may be better suited to a job and let them do it. If not, we jeopardize not only our own standing, but also the health of our tribe.