Future Tarot

[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.

Last Wednesday, Miss Michele and Serenity Bly read for Stacey in the Echo of One chat room. Join us Wednesday morning, 10 AM EST for more free readings and Tarot chat.

Stacey wants to know, now that she’s home, what aspects of her career should she focus on?

[Miss Michele] Wow, Stacey… okay I’m using my Rider-Waite Deck.

Serenity Bly is looking forward to the cards.

[Miss Michele] The Hermit in the past shows that you have been in a sort of self-imposed mental exile, learning, planning and plotting.

You achieved some great insights about your self, discovered you want to do something “different” but aren’t quite sure what.

The second card, in the near future, shows you’re very ready to take the leap… it is The Fool. You are very much in the *start* of your journey. Whatever you do, it will be a great departure from what you’ve done in the past.

[Serenity Bly] The Fool is always all about taking risks, Stacey. Don’t be afraid to do a little leaping before you look.

[Miss Michele] It seems that, just as you aren’t sure WHAT you want to do, neither are the cards.

[Serenity Bly] The cards, for those just joining us, are The Hermit in the Past, The Fool in the Present, and Future, MM?

[Miss Michele] The Hermit (past), The Fool (near future), and the Seven of Swords (final outcome). But I’m thinking of drawing a clarification card since that seven isn’t really giving Stacey a definitive answer.

[Stacey] So far you’re right on target

[Miss Michele] The advice from the Tarot would be, be careful of self-deception.

[stacey] LOL– Greeeeeeeeeeeat.

[Miss Michele] Make sure you are going in a direction that is what YOU want… not what is expected of you and if you decide to partner with anyone–be wary.

[Serenity Bly] This moment, and the ones surrounding it have major significance in your life. The Hermit and The Fool being Major Arcana are cards that show your path being mapped. They’re life-changing concepts and the only way to truly accept the direction your life is taking now is to embrace what comes to you. Follow your heart. The Seven Swords of the future insists you also take action. Work at it, set your feet to the ground and start running.

[Miss Michele] Might be a good time to do a personality profile type thing, or simply journal — write down as many things you can think of that you love. That will reveal hints.

[Miss Michele] Yes, Serenity, thank you– I meant to get to that. When I saw the first two majors I was like holy sh–… she’s going through some life-changing stuff.

[Miss Michele] The clarification card is the Two of Cups. Do what you LOVE. Figure out what that is, regardless of how illogical it may seem, and jump in with both feet. Two of Cups is ALL about following your heart–Serenity was typing that before I even revealed the card. She knows.

[Stacey] LOL, very interesting.

[Miss Michele] Remember, with the Two and the Fool and the Hermit–it’s the beginning stages. Don’t expect immediate results, although the Seven of Swords does point toward some measure of success right away. But don’t listen to naysayers.

[Serenity Bly] I want to just also mention that since no Pentacles or money cards came up whatever path you choose probably won’t be the one that appears to be more financially rewarding than other opportunities. Part of the risk taking you need to do as The Fool is to accept what might be less financially rewarding because it will be more emotionally and mentally rewarding.

[Stacey] I was JUST working on opening up a new Tarot business while still writing. I have a talent for doing what I love instead of doing what is $$ rewarding. I love the cards you’ve drawn, they’re right on the money. Thank you!

The first to jump in on our March of Dimes Fundraiser, Future-tarot querent Helen requests a C-for-Career Spread and writes:

I want to play with “the big boys”. I’ve worked hard to get where I am. We just went through a major reorganization, at least I have my job. I have two bosses now. I used to feel important, but now it seems as if I’m at the bottom, and kinda like a secretary for my new boss. I never minded doing the grunt work of my job, but I no longer have authority/power.

Is it worth working my butt off? I have great ideas, can put together projects, but I feel “why should I?”. And most of all, I miss my travel budget. I used to travel quite a bit. I think I’ve been grounded. There’s a conference coming up, one of my favorites, I’ve started working on a project that would get me there (no cost to the company) but it would probably go to my boss and not me (he likes attention). 

Miss Michele drew a six-card C-for-Career Spread to provide Helen with career guidance.

You are a strong and intelligent woman with excellent instincts, which will serve you well in business. You know “something isn’t quite right” in your current business – and the cards confirm that your suspicions are, unfortunately, correct.

However, that’s the beautiful thing about Tarot. By being aware of our situation and our possible future, we put ourselves in a better position to change our destinies.

The cards –

Your past experience in your career: The Fool: This card shows the beginning of your career, when you were a fresh-faced newbie, eager to please. What you lacked in knowledge you made up for in enthusiasm. Your can-do attitude paid off, as you quickly advanced up your chosen career path. You are so close to “playing with the big boys” you can almost taste it. Even in your current, less desirable situation, you maintain your positive attitude and this will serve you well.

Your current experience at your job: The Five of Rods: Miss Michele wasn’t very surprised, based on the details you supplied, to see the Five of Rods show up in this position. This card is telling us your instincts are correct. The Five of Rods indicates a battle; egos are involved. You feel forced to stoop to the level of your bosses, to play office politics, but that’s not your style. Stand your ground, like the brave boy on this card fighting off the masses, and you will win — although it may not be the victory you desire. The other option is to refuse to play their game.

What you want from a job: The Nine of Swords: The Nightmare Card, showing up in this spot seems an odd one, as the last thing you would want in a job is problems, problems and more problems.

Instead, this card is showing that your situation has gotten so bad, that what you want at this time is for your worst fears not to materialize. I sense confusion in the woman in this card. She sits up in bed, back of hand pressed against her forehead, unsure where to turn or what to do. However, things are coming to a head, as they always do when the number 9 is present… the worst is nearly over. Right now, you simply aren’t sure what you want.

I drew a clarification card in this spot – if you don’t know, maybe the Tarot does! The Eight of Rods seems to imply a change is in order – and rapidly! This card often represents new opportunities, coming at you faster than the speed of light.

What you need from a job: The Five of Swords: Your needs in a job, right now, again, show us more of what you actually don’t need. The victor in this card represents your boss—he’s standing with the spoils of war, but two figures in the background are sneaking away with the best of what he could have. In other words, leaving your boss for a position which will earn you respect, a true chance to shine, may be the answer.

What you have to offer your employer/your greatest strengths: the Knight of Swords: Your greatest strength is exemplified in the great, ambitious Knight of Swords. Fearless, he charges ahead, knowing he’s prepared for whatever may come!

Possible future experience in your career: The Four of Rods, also shows a bright future for you once you make the decision to make that change. The Four of Rods specifically represents a celebration, but also a new partnership. You will advance to a place where you are treated as an equal partner and given opportunities.

Miss Michele remembers her days of business travel, and there’s always a party to attend. This card in the future, too, shows that you will attend the conference as you wish, but it may not be with your current firm.

While the Knight of Swords represents swift change, don’t be too hasty. The Four of Rods always comes into play following the careful planning of the Three of Rods. Polish off that resume, do some social networking, and spread the word (subtly and quietly) that you are looking for a promotion. If your bosses are smart, they will keep you and treat you the way you deserve. But either way, brighter days await.

We are excited with Helen’s reading and would love the opportunity to answer your Tarot questions too. Please, if you are thinking of ordering a reading, do so now! Ordering before July 31st, 2009 will support a fantastic cause as all proceeds this month are being forwarded to March of Dimes.

Finally, Miss Michele is live on RadioXShow this week. Tune in to find out more about our March of Dimes Fundraiser, call the show for a free live three-card reading, or listen to the show at RadioXShow.com Wednesday night, July 29, from around 11:00 PM.

The 2009/2010 year will be a busy one for Dawn. Ultimately, there is balance within her focus but, as is so often the case, balance is rarely found in a single moment. Balance tends to be seen in hindsight or from a distance. The coming months will be a mixture of excitement and hard work with the new year offering an emotional start to 2010 and an opportunity to grow and learn. Lets look more closely at what the year ahead has in store for Dawn.

June: The Fool

June heralds a new beginning, a brand new venture, or a new youth and energy to your existing projects. I feel like you’ve opened your eyes to a new way of living and rediscovered the joy that can be found in each simple breath. The Fool is young and exuberant. He rushes blindly, taking risks, and is just beginning his journey. Like the Fool, Dawn has had the opportunity to begin again and to approach life with a fresh, untarnished perspective.

July: Judgment

With inside knowledge I have a strong impression that this card foretells the successful financial and legal settlement of Dawn’s new home. Judgment often implies dealing with paperwork and the finer details involved in closing a deal. In some ways it is an end to one process but as one ends a new adventure begins.

August: Five of Swords

After two highly charged months, August brings forced reflection, pause, and confusion with the Five of Swords. You’ll be facing daunting choices and may find that you’re not in a position to know which option is the best. Adjusting to the recent changes in your life is going to be a greater challenge then you expected and you may feel like you’ve lost power and momentum as you’re forced to reestablish balance and security.

September: Knight of Pentacles

The Knight of Pentacles in September shows that you’ll soon find your feet, rebuilding your home and family around you. The knight begins establishing a more permanent place in the world and brings his skills to the fore creating an environment that suits his needs and those of his loved ones.

October: King of Pentacles

You’ve done everything right and will reap the rewards of your earlier planning and careful consideration. The King of Pentacles is blessed with all he desires in the material world and in October you’ll be in a position to truly appreciate your situation in life. October may introduce a positive influence who will be a role model or guide you want to emulate for continued success.

November: Three of Wands

In November you’ll again begin looking ahead at all there is still to do. The Three of Wands reminds you that you’ve completed one stage of the grander project but it is not time to rest upon your laurels. More work is ahead of you but you have the knowledge and the inspiration to flourish.

December: King of Swords

When I first picked up this card he came out on his head but I got the sense that this King of Swords is a masculine influence that will come into your life. Coming in December he could be Santa Claus, or perhaps, he simply brings the gift of new knowledge and an opportunity to learn. He may even be offering you the chance to teach what you already know but more likely is a teacher himself who brings you new understanding.

January: Five of Wands and Ten of Wands

The mix of these two wands is interesting. January brings with it a challenge that will spark your passions and bring out your fighting spirit. There is no way you’ll let this latest hurdle frighten you. The Five of Wands shows you making strategic battle plans but the Ten of Wands leaves you feeling deflated. After the excitement and adrenaline of conquest the prize is less than you expected.

February: Eight of Pentacles

And so, you take your Eight of Pentacles back to the work station, returning to what you know best. You’ve done well in the past and have solid skills that give you success in business. February may feel repetitive but the solidity of steady work you are familiar with is exactly what you need after the chaos January presented.

March: Five of Cups

For ten months you’ve been focused primarily on home and business. You’ve been clear-headed and professional, facing down any challenge with determination and reveling in your success with dignity and calm. The Five of Cups in March shows emotional upset that could be related to the tragic loss of a cherished relationship. This separation leaves you grieving for what you once had and the turmoil of emotion will linger through the months ahead.

April: Knight of Swords

The supportive encouragement of a friend, The Knight of Swords, gives you strength to charge onward through the melancholy of March and into April. This friend may make life a little unruly but the chaos and disruption keep your mind busy. Ultimately, this friend’s purpose is to shake you out of a rut and bring change and action back into your life.

May: Seven of Cups

May finds you quietly seeking guidance and advice. You’ll find yourself reflecting on past choices and reevaluating the direction you’ve taken with an eye to future happiness. The Seven of Cups asks you to listen carefully and head the warnings and direction you’ll be given at this time.

June/Outcome: Queen of Wands

I felt a need to draw another card making this 12-Month Spread actually 13 months. This final card brings us full circle which allows me to draw on the strongly positive and empowered influences of this Queen of Wands who has come through stronger, inspired, and empowered from the last few challenging months. She is you, Dawn, embodied in confidence and in command of her environment. Her message is clear, you’re a beautiful and intelligent woman who has the inner strength to face any of life’s challenges. Take time to reflect on how far you’ve come and all you are today whenever you feel daunted by the future.

Future-Tarot reader Hannah wants to know: “How is my current relationship going to turn out?”

Overview: Miss Michele is happy to report good news for Hannah. The reading reveals a new relationship that is going to turn into a significant endeavor. Hannah and her partner complement each other in a variety of ways. Things move rapidly, as evidenced by the two Wands in this reading, while three Major Arcana show great significance in the relationship. In fact, the possible final outcome, the Three of Rods, may well indicate a marriage or other significant commitment.

I am also sensing, from the last two cards in this spread, that there is debate about a possible move.  Hannah might be ready for the change that a new setting will provide; even if it doesn’t quite add up to the best decision on paper, it may be worth it to go for it – and the outcome if she moves should be better than a long-distance relationship or a break-up.

Past experience in love: The Magician: Hannah actually had pretty good luck with love in the past. The Magician shows that she was able to use all her talents to create the experience she wanted. These relationships didn’t work out simply because they weren’t “meant to be” but AH is taking what she learned from them to make future relationships stronger.

Current experience in love: The Sun: This Major Arcana shows the start of a very good, albeit young, love. However, this is not a relationship of blind lust; it is well thought-out, with an emphasis on analysis. This is supported by the Magician in this spread. Hannah, you are a smart woman and are applying what you know to this relationship.

What you want from a love relationship: Six of Wands: Be aware, however, of overthinking the relationship or over-analyzing it. Let go and enjoy! You want someone strong and capable of fighting by your side in any battle. Together, you are an unbeatable force. The Six of Wands, the Victory card, shows just how much you want this relationship to succeed; and it seems to be doing just that. It feels as if things couldn’t get better. I get the sense, however, simply by your asking this question, that you are waiting for the other shoe to drop. And, true, the Six of Wands can indicate “success for now” but all the other cards support the assertion that this relationship is meant to last.

What is hidden, what you want but don’t realize it: The Fool: You need someone to counter your maturity and your analytical mind. Sometimes, you are too thoughtful for your own good, and you seek a bit of spontaneity. Is your current partner the type to whisk you away for a weekend jaunt with just the clothes on your back and a change of (racy) underwear? That’s what you need. While it’s an oxymoron to try to “plan” spontaneity, you can work at it. Talking it out is never a problem for you, so tell him exactly what you’d like him to do; send him the link to that base-jumping vacation or, if that’s a bit too extreme for you, suggest a weekend in the country: no shirt, no shoes, no cell phone.

What you have to give your lover: Knight of Swords: Miss Michele is not at all surprised to see a Sword representing your strength in love, or what you have to offer a lover. After all, Swords are the cards of sharp intellect and you have that—if you’ll pardon the pun—in spades! However, the Knight of Swords is the court card who is always ready for a fight. You will challenge your lover to be a better man for you. Don’t be ready to call it quits on him if he doesn’t comply right away, however. There is a future here. Hang in there.

Possible future experience in love: Three of Wands: The Three of Rods indicates a possible journey—figurative or literal. It also often signifies a marriage proposal, and this change in “status” is supported by the Knight of Swords. Stay focused, communicate and don’t be afraid to move forward in this relationship.

Don’t forget to join us at 10am EST over at The Echo of One. We’re doing free three-card readings and talking Tarot. Everyone is welcome!