The Wanderer
The Wanderer - As represented by nature’s vagabond - the Wolf
If you took the path toward the pale green light, congratulations—you are what’s known as the Wanderer. Represented by nature’s vagabond, the Wolf, you are driven by a need for freedom, gifted with an independent spirit. But in your search for yourself, do not lose sight of your values.
One of your deepest desires is true freedom. But there is no single path that leads there. You may not find freedom until you find yourself—or you may not find it until you lose yourself. This paradox is at the heart of all Wanderers, and what works for you today may not work tomorrow.
As you move through life, you may feel pressured into a path that doesn’t fulfill you, only to wake one day and realize you’ve felt trapped for a long time. But remember—much of the wandering you seek happens in your own mind. Even as you work hard to build a comfortable life, allow yourself to break routines now and then. Do not fear stepping away from what is familiar and expected—sometimes, you won’t recognize the right path until you’re already on it.
The life of a Wanderer is a strange one in a structured society. Many people won’t understand you. Some may try to use shame to force you into conformity. Many Wanderers break under this pressure, settling into lives that no longer speak to them. This stagnation can feel suffocating, even panic-inducing, for a Wanderer who has lost their way.
The Wanderer is driven by a longing they can’t quite name. They seek the Tree of Life, the mysteries of the world, true love, and purpose—all at once. None of these alone can satisfy every need, so it’s crucial to find outlets that honor your wandering spirit. You don’t have to abandon the life you’ve built to embrace this part of yourself. A little spontaneity, a small rebellion against routine, can work wonders for the Wanderer’s heart.
Every archetype must find balance, but for the Wanderer, this can be particularly challenging. Wanderers are deeply sensitive, feeling both joy and sorrow with great intensity. Their hearts are easily broken, making them prone to solitude or even resentment toward those they love. Recall how you first became the Wanderer—taking the unmarked path into the wilderness. But remember, that path can also be taken in the heart and mind while still maintaining a full life with friends and family. When the Wanderer retreats as an escape from hardship, they risk becoming lost. Take the time you need to reflect and find balance, but do not push others away in your struggle for inner peace.
A balanced Wanderer can build a life with deep roots in relationships and work. This may seem contradictory to the Wanderer’s nature, but stability often makes it easier to embrace your wandering spirit. Just be sure to cultivate a life that understands and forgives your need to occasionally break away—to do something different, if only for a while.
REMEMBER—The great Wanderers of the world see life as a river winding endlessly forward. Do not be afraid to bring your boat ashore and stay in one place for a time—you will always know when it’s time to set sail again. Treasure the connections you make as you wander through life. Keep your heart open. Stay vulnerable.
Other Notable Wanderers in Fiction: Bilbo (The Hobbit), Moana (Moana), Sirius Black (Harry Potter), Miss Murphy (Mariana the Moon Girl), Black Widow (Marvel’s Avengers).
To continue to the second part of the ritual . . .