Future Tarot     -     Tarot Chat: Wednesday 9.30pm EST

(From the March 10 Future-Tarot chat.)

[Miss Shin] My question is: I am just wondering whether I am at the right place in my life with my recently made decisions (in terms of relationships and friendships) and whether I am going in the right direction in my life

[Serenity Bly] Great question.

[Miss Shin] Thanks

[Serenity Bly] *ponders* Interesting cards.

[Miss Shin] Hmmm.

[Serenity Bly] Two of them have very distinct meanings that differ on the situation, so I’m just taking an extra moment to tune in on the right one.

[Miss Shin] Hmm. Ok.

[Serenity Bly] I’m pretty sure The Devil in this case is a sense of having felt manipulated and controlled in the past. *big hugs* What I feel here is a sense of abuse, perhaps a boyfriend/husband or father figure. For a long time, that influence had you dancing to his tune and feeling dominated by his arrogance and the choices he made for your life.

[Miss Shin] Wow. That’s true. My boyfriend is really particular about my past.

[Serenity Bly] You weren’t in charge of your own destiny. You were managed by this influence and it was his wishes you obeyed and his opinions that mattered. Your life was his to commend. The energy is very domineering and uncomfortable, like you had to shrink the light inside you to avoid the pain he could bring upon it with the hurt and harm he caused.

[Miss Shin] I guess it was more of an emotional abuse of judgments.

[Serenity Bly] The Ace of Swords in the present shows that you’re just starting to learn to talk about that, to bring it out into the open. Perhaps it’s upsetting your friends or family to know, as if they’d seen your light and had no idea that this was going on in that relationship. They’re surprised, but it’s very good that you’re giving voice to what was going on then. And doing so is shaping a beautiful future. I get the impression there is already a new partner in your life, or on the horizon of your life.

[Miss Shin] Yes! Wow! You’re awesome.

[Serenity Bly] The Ace of Swords is helping you in this new relationship because your new partner senses the timidity that’s below the surface. You hold back when he wants you to give; you’re still protecting yourself.

[Miss Shin] Hmmmm. But in terms of coming to terms with the past, I guess my new partner is not doing too well with that.

[Serenity Bly] And the cards here say, “You don’t need to.” This Ten of Cups is a beautiful union. He’s a wonderful, loving, giving man. Using the Ace of Swords as you are, you can open yourself up with him. Let go of the past influences of your former relationship.

[Miss Shin] Okay. That sounds good.

[Serenity Bly] Be free with your new partner. He loves you, but he NEEDS you to be present with him, to at least be open with how you’re feeling in the moment.

[Miss Shin] Okay. How about friendships?

[Serenity Bly] He’s strong. I think he’ll stick it out, but there is a sense of uncertainty in him that stems from him feeling like he needs kid gloves. He needs to be careful how he handles you. You’re like an injured bird and he’s afraid you’ll disappear if he moves to fast around you or says the wrong thing or touches you in the wrong way, so he needs your assurances. The Ace of Swords was talking about your friendships.

[Miss Shin] I guess his uncertainty is how I move on from here and whether I am able to fit into his mold of social norms. I have decided to remove acquaintances in my life.

[Serenity Bly] About your friends being shocked by your revelations. If they can’t get over it, it’s ok to let them go. He’s NOT judging you Miss Shin. You don’t have to fit into his mold. He just wants you to be the real you with him.

[Miss Shin] Okay, thanks, Serenity.

[Serenity Bly] My pleasure, and good luck.

[Miss Shin] It’s just some of his statements interpreted as he was judging my past.

[Serenity Bly] I suspect it’s you judging your past and it feels like him because your past experience was a judgmental man. Don’t let the ex-boyfriend shadow this new man for you. They’re nothing alike.

[Miss Shin] Okay. Thanks.

[plaidearthworm] I’d like one, only if you have the time.

[Miss Michelle] For sure!

[plaidearthworm] Cool! This is about Wisecrack Zodiac. An opportunity has been presented to me regarding the book. I don’t have the manuscript finished yet, but I’m wondering if I should pursue this opportunity. Is it worth it?

[Serenity Bly] Oh, whose cards are we doing plaids reading with? Should I be shuffling?

[Miss Michelle] I’ve drawn for Plaid.

[Serenity Bly] Ok, what did you get?

[Miss Michelle] The Devil, the Fool, Queen of Wands. To sum it up in a sentence, Plaid, I would not take this opportunity because there’s a better one on the horizon. However, use it as an impetus to finish the book. Because you’ve been letting temptation and distractions get the better of you. The Fool says if you were to take this opportunity, you’d be jumping in blindly, without all the facts. I’m sensing this may be a royalty-only offer or something equally “eh.” Do your research really well on this company and offer.

[Serenity Bly] The Devil also indicates that you won’t have the freedom to follow your creative interests, you’ll be under someone else’s final call. And you might prefer to do things differently and find your hands tied.

[Miss Michelle] It’s flattering, but you may come across an opportunity that’s even better. Before you sign anything, check Everything over. (And that’s not only with this company, but anything related to this project.)

[plaidearthworm] Bide my time. And it has spurred me into more creativity.

[Miss Michelle] On the other hand, The Fool ALSO has the effect of sparking you on to finish the book. You’re jumping in to it on all 8 cylinders now, just because you’re so excited someone DOES want it.

[Serenity Bly] And, in the project you do in the future YOU lead, and you rule.

[plaidearthworm] Plus we’re getting a tax refund, so I’ll have some spare non-content writing time to focus on finishing the manuscript.

[Miss Michelle] But the Queen of Wands, yes–what she said.

[plaidearthworm] I like it! Thanks so much!

[Miss Michelle] So take the positive energy, and definitely look into the offer — if only to learn what you don’t find desirable about it.

[Serenity Bly] But the ultimate advice is to weigh your options and don’t leap into anything blindly.

[Miss Michelle] Kind of like going on a job interview when you don’t really want the job. Ask the right questions, use it as practice, but then thank them for their time and move on.

[plaidearthworm] Cool. I tried to do a reading myself last night on this, but nothing made sense. What you’re saying lets me know why.

[Miss Michelle] It can be very hard to read for yourself. Serenity Bly and I don’t do it anymore, now that we have each other. Well, aside from my accidental cards, and we saw how THEY turned out. lol

[plaidearthworm] Plus the 10 card spread gets complicated for me. Just trying out the deck Wynter got me.

[Serenity Bly] It’s hardest to read for yourself because you’re vested in the outcome. You try to make the cards say what you WANT them to say. And sometimes, ten cards are too many. They’re great for delving deeply into a situation but when you just need a little insight or guidance three to six cards are better.

The start of a new year is the best time to layout an 12-Month Spread. In January, Jenine asked us to discover what she can expect and prepare for in the year ahead. Lets break it down, month by month.

January: Strength

This month began with personal growth for you, as we’ve seen. You’ve learned how to harness your inner strength to begin making positive changes in your life, and also learned how to capitalize on your own strengths for business success. In the process, you’ve learned you’re stronger than you’ve always believed.

February: Four of Wands

Expect a celebration of your successes in February, gatherings with friends and plenty of social invitations.

March: Justice

This month, you are able to balance discipline with kindness. You have fabulous ideas and are able to view things from unique perspectives. This card represents your getting in better touch with your classroom persona – you are strict, but kind and wise. Remember to maintain balance in all you do. Watch out for responsibilities that may drain you of time and energy, but offer little in return.

April: Two of Swords

The spring, March and April, is also about balance, indicated by the coupling of Justice with the Two of Swords. When I look at May (Four of Cups), and the clarification card I felt called to draw, it all comes together. You may be doing too much! You were on a whirlwind of utter excitement and success, but began neglecting certain health matters. (For instance, pay attention to eating balanced, frequent meals to keep your blood sugar on an even keel?) You may feel as if people – family, clients, your day job, other commitments, are pulling you in too many directions.

As shown by the Two of Swords, a powerfully graphic card showing a woman, arms crossed, blindfolded, there are factors you are choosing not to see. People who may want, want, want, without being willing to give back. And in this case, there is nothing in it for you. You’re better to walk away…for your health.

When I pulled a clarification card, the Four of Swords came out, and the Five of Cups kind of hitched a ride with it. Granted, my Robin Wood deck is smooth and slick, especially on the graphite surface of my new desk, but the meaning is clear… You must be aware of your health or, (Four of Swords) a rest will be forced upon you. The Five of Cups indicates loss, disappointment, poverty and mourning of what may have been. Again, this could be your feelings if you don’t do what’s necessary. Now is a good time to evaluate all your balls in the air and decide what isn’t crucial and most importantly, what doesn’t provide you joy.

As friends and colleagues of yours, both Serenity Bly and Miss Michele would like to remind you of the support system you have here. Turn to us for help, whether for additional readings, professional support or simply a shoulder. You also have other strong support systems… use them. It’s important not to retreat in the spring.

May: Four of Cups

The Four of Cups represents the aftermath of what is admittedly, a rough April. Again, I want to remind you it will only be rough if you make it that way. By being aware of those factors, acknowledging them, and choosing to focus on making things otherwise, you CAN change it! The Cups in the Four of Cups may be empty, but empty cups mean potential to fill them.

June: Ace of Pentacles

That opportunity comes in June when you literally face a new beginning, perhaps a new business idea. It certainly indicates a renewal of your energy. And what better time for a rebirth?!

July: Nine of Cups

I absolutely love this card, the Wish fulfillment card, and it’s perfectly suited for you at this stage. You are seeing that truly, whatever you ask for, the Universe offers. Your job is simply to allow it in and know you deserve it. Conceive – believe – receive… where have you heard that before?

August: Ten of Cups

Success continues in August… there’s hard work ahead, but you are fit and ready for the task.

September: The Devil

There will be more pulling and demands of your time in September… challenges similar to what you faced in the Spring will rear their heads again. You’ll need to stand your ground against people who want a piece of you – and may not deserve it, appreciate you or be willing to pay what you’re worth. Additionally, the Devil indicates a desire to bury your head in the sand, ignore all the work and demands you face, and goof off. Resist that desire, as then tasks will only build. Do what you can, and say “No,” (or, better yet, “Not now, thank you”) to the rest.

October: Tower

You experience a significant breakthrough in October, that begins paving the way to the “new you.” You realize, after that “Devil moment” in September, that things absolutely cannot continue the way they are. I’m wondering if this doesn’t indicate your leaving your day job… under circumstances that surprise you but ultimately, wind up for the best. You definitely do NOT emerge the same woman you were in the beginning of October by month’s end.

November: The Magician

Following your Tower breakthrough, you become a master at harnessing your skills and talents to achieve success. The Magician’s number, 1, indicates you’re still at the beginning of this journey, but that’s okay. The Magician is proficient at what he achieves when he uses his special skills.

December: Queen of Pentacles

An extension of the Magician, with an emphasis on the feminine, you see the fruits of your labors from November. This card also indicates your role as a caregiver of those around you, and a hostess for the holidays. You are in “nesting” mode, preparing your home for the holidays, baking, shopping, and making things.

Overview: 5 of Pentacles

This overview card, often signifying poverty, seems to contradict the positivity in the rest of the reading. In fact, in this case, the card represents Recovery. Rather than showing the year, it shows where you were – in despair, with both health and financial problems, coupled with a dose of self-doubt. Unfortunately, these shadows of your former self still haunt in you—even in the face of your great successes in 2010.

The best way to contradict these feelings is to be aware they are there. Do not forget your roots, or what can happen if you stop working, change paths or give up your dreams. By the same token, it’s important not to harp on it. Acknowledge it as part of your past, and move on. It is no longer you. In the Robin Wood deck, the person with the can, with one leg and a bandage over one eye, is forging ahead, in contrast to the destitute person crumbled on the floor beside them. You, too, must forge ahead in spite of any of your perceived in adequacies – because that is all they are. YOUR perceptions. Other people view you as the Strength card of January, the Queen of Pents, and the Magician – all figures which feature prominently in this year for you.

With all the Cups and Pentacles in this reading, along with Major Arcana, this will be a significant year of you learning to make money doing what you love. It will be about finding personal fulfillment and, from that, the money will follow. Most cards are lower – ones, fours and fives, indicating you are in the beginning stages of this development. However, bright spots include that 9 and 10 of Cups in the summer. It is a year to look forward to, to dive in headfirst and accept all the good the Universe is offering you.

Your Past Experience = Five of Pentacles

Over the years you’ve worked hard to build your skills but often felt like you should give up one path to follow another. The Five of Pentacles shows a man walking away from a job that paid well and offered a sense of satisfaction but no real joy. He feels a sense of loss and has sacrificed the hard work of the past.

Your Current Experience = Page of Cups

Now you spend a great deal of your time in reflection and, perhaps, regret. The Page of Cups (reversed) knows how talented he is and believes that he deserves to do something remarkable with his life and with the direction of his career. You want to make lasting change but by spending so much of your time and energy looking into your own reflection you may be missing the opportunities for growth and development that are around you.

What You Want = Ace of Pentacles (reversed) & Knight of Wands (reversed)

You’re either starting to feel the penny pinching, the tightening of belts, and want to feel more financial freedom, or are afraid to lose the income you currently have. The Ace of Pentacles (reversed) represents and almost miserly sense of financial instability. You may find that the way you ‘cling’ to what you have prevents you from feeling the sense of true abundance you desire.
Tied together with the Knight of Wands (reversed) in this position I get the impression that you want the freedom of choosing your own goals and outcomes. You’d rather not work for ‘the man’. You want to set your own path and be able to create new and interesting opportunities. You don’t want to be tied down but I suspect you also fear too much freedom.

What you Need = The Tower (reversed)

The Tower tells me that what you truly need is to give up your old perceptions, your old realities, and take a chance on a new direction. You may have been clinging to a position that hasn’t made you happy simply because it’s all that has kept food on the table. If you’re considering taking the plunge to freelancing or going into business for yourself rather than keeping your day job this Tower says it could be exactly what you need. Change, while scary, is always an adventure that brings new and exciting potential into your life.

What You Offer = The Devil & Nine of Wands

You’re passionate and have the ability to set in single-minded pursuit of your goals and interests. The Devil is highly charged, he’s emotional and earthy, he’s in command of his reality and understands how to influence and manipulate other people and situations to suit his own interests.
When the Nine of Wands joins the Devil we see bright new ideas and a potential for successful inspirations and ventures. Out of rough seas you’re generating new concepts and approaching what feels like a new business venture with fresh energy and enthusiasm.

Your Action Plan = Nine of Swords (reversed)

The Tarot suggests that you trust your instincts and ignore the negativity others are throwing at you. Choose not to let those who express concerns and disbelief in your abilities or in the global economy to sustain new opportunities. You may be feeling dragged down by the ‘logic’ and ‘rationale’ arguments being presented and the Nine of Swords (reversed) expresses a need to tune out those discouraging influences. Choose your path based on what you feel within yourself to be the right course of action. Trust your own judgment and take chances based on your gut despite what others might think.

Concentrating on the flip of the cards, I make mental notes of the colors, the facial expressions, the attitude of the ones the Universe has chosen fit to show me as I start a new project. Tarot embraces the creative side of seekers, showing us we have unlimited sources for our inspirations. How you choose to express it is as individual as a reading and as unique as the querent. Painting? Writing? Music? All are within the creative scope of Tarot; how can we turn this energy from a reading to a manifestation of art?

I always start with colors. For me, my Gemini yellow stands out immediately in the Knight of Pentacles, Four of Wands and others in my “working” Rider-Waite Deck, demanding my attention. It attracts my eye and I’m drawn to the card to look deeper. The shade of the background color affects the reading, is it vibrant or muted? Is it a pale wash of color or something more sinister? The soft blues depicted in the Three of Cups or the midnight-black of the Devil or Nine of Swords visually invite us to stare into the card and take from it what we can to promote our art. By incorporating these colors into a drawing, we release what we’ve learned from our reading into the world.

If you are starting a new project, use them to determine what is the prevalent mood of the cards. Can they be interpreted as a dark introduction to a piece of music? Are the characters celebrating or despondent? The suits can help to determine the pace of the song: Swords are quick and agile, they lend a sharp, almost aggressive note to the music; Wands seek harmony, a melody is wrapped within its walls; Pentacles show determination and hard work, a perfect accompaniment to a complicated solo and Cups denote joy, love and the mystery of the self.

When writing, take into account the entire spread; weave a story around the beginning, middle and ending inviting the reader to join you on the journey outlined by the cards. The characters within the cards become your heroes and villains, write down their expressions as well to what is embodied in the card to help you develop their background stories. What is their hair color? Manner of dress? Are they alone? What is the most important thing they’re doing in the card: clutching at pentacles (money) or holding the hand of the one they love? By using your spread to map out a story, half the work is done for you, Tarot itself being the ultimate reflection of your own story.

Using Tarot as a tool to delve deep within your natural creativity may open new avenues. Trying journaling about the cards within your spread to see patterns evolve as you learn more about Tarot and how it fits into your life. Take the time to put your reading to work for you as a partner for your imagination as new worlds await. Good luck!

Wynter Moon