Guest Post: Five Tarot Combinations That Signal Horror

Today, I'd like to welcome Tanya Brum to the blog. 

Tanya Brum is a seasoned tarot expert, with over 25 years of experience. You can discover more about her at Tarot Sparks, where she offers free readings, tarot card meanings, and other interesting articles on the Tarot. Tanya's guidance offers practical insights, illuminating your path with wisdom and clarity for your life's journey.

Please give a warm welcome to Tanya Brum.

Tarot cards have captivated minds for centuries, offering glimpses into the enigmatic realm of the unknown. While often associated with guidance and introspection, the Tarot deck, with its rich symbolism and diverse interpretations, can also take a chilling turn. 

As a Tarot reader, I had numerous experiences when flipping the cards sent shivers down my spine and certain combinations of cards within a reading did foretell a narrative steeped in horror, offering a cryptic glimpse into unsettling futures or hidden fears. 

Here are five Tarot combinations, with each Tarot card meaning explained, that when laid out may signal an ominous tale.

1. The Tower, The Devil, and The Ten of Swords

Oh man. With these three cards, it really can’t get any worse than this. The positive in this combination is that from here it can only get better. The combination of the Tower, Devil, and Ten of Swords truly signals a cataclysmic descent into darkness. 

The Tower embodies sudden and sometimes catastrophic change, depicting a crumbling structure struck by lightning. Its symbolism extends beyond mere physical destruction; it signifies the shattering of illusions, revelation, and the dismantling of established beliefs or structures.

The Devil reveals the representation of temptation, bondage, and the darker aspects of human nature. It signifies being chained to one's vices, indulging in material desires without restraint, and the profound consequences of unchecked primal urges. 

If you look at the Ten of Swords, depicting a figure lying face down with ten swords plunged into their back (and even the ear!), this card symbolizes betrayal, rock-bottom despair, and the culmination of a harrowing journey. It speaks of a relentless and absolute downfall, where trust is shattered, and hope seems irretrievably lost. There’s no way down, from here, you can only rebound.   

The Horror Within the Combination

When these three cards align in a reading, they weave a tale of unparalleled horror. The Tower heralds an abrupt and catastrophic event, shattering the stability and foundations of life. This event, compounded by The Devil's presence, signifies that the calamity is intertwined with one's own inner demons and destructive tendencies. The Ten of Swords, the final blow in this sinister triad, marks the brutal conclusion of a series of betrayals and relentless hardships.

This combination hints at a descent into an abyss of despair, where personal choices, driven by base instincts and external influences, converge in a calamitous finale. It's a narrative of utter devastation, where the very fabric of existence is torn asunder, leaving behind a landscape of ruin and despair.

The horror emanating from this combination doesn't merely stem from external threats or supernatural forces; it emerges from the darkest recesses of the human psyche. It foretells a scenario where the consequences of one's actions, fueled by unrestrained desires and moral compromises, culminate in a catastrophic downfall—both personal and existential.

The horror lies not in an external threat, but in the chilling realization that the true monsters might dwell within oneself. It serves as a cautionary tale, urging introspection and restraint in the face of temptation, reminding individuals of the potential consequences of succumbing to their darkest impulses.

In essence, this combination paints a picture of terror born not from external supernatural entities, but from the labyrinthine depths of human nature itself, where unchecked desires and moral compromises lead to a nightmarish conclusion—a horror story etched in the very fabric of one's existence.

2. Death, The Hanged Man, and The Five of Cups

The Death card is often misunderstood as it rarely signifies literal death. Instead, it embodies transformation, endings, and the inevitability of change – transformation from a cocoon to butterfly, from a seed to tree - the closing of one chapter to pave the way for new beginnings, signifying profound shifts and transitions. 

The Hanged Man is in a sense opposite to the Death card – it depicts a figure suspended upside down and symbolizes sacrifice, suspension, and a voluntary surrender to gain enlightenment. It encourages looking at situations from a different perspective, undergoing introspection, and embracing a necessary pause or sacrifice for growth. 

The Five of Cups, where a figure is mourning over spilled cups while overlooking two remaining upright cups – this card signifies grief, loss, and dwelling on past sorrows, often suggesting an inability to move forward due to fixation on what's been lost.

The Horror Within the Combination

When Death, The Hanged Man, and The Five of Cups intertwine within a Tarot spread, they weave a chilling narrative of horror laced with profound despair.

The presence of Death doesn't foretell literal demise but hints at the death of hope or the end of an era. Paired with The Hanged Man, it suggests a prolonged period of suspended agony, where one willingly or unwillingly lingers in a state of emotional limbo, unable to move forward due to a refusal to let go of past sorrows. The Five of Cups deepens this sense of horror by accentuating a profound sense of loss and regret. The figure depicted in this card is consumed by grief, unable to see the possibility of renewal symbolized by the remaining upright cups. It implies a fixation on past pain, leading to a state of emotional stagnation and despair.

This combination paints a harrowing portrait of a relentless cycle of grief and emotional entrapment. It's a horror story of being ensnared in the web of one's own emotions, unable to break free from the haunting specters of the past. The terror emanates not from external threats or supernatural forces but from the suffocating grip of one's unresolved emotions.

The horror lies in the insidious nature of emotional imprisonment, where the inability to let go of past grievances or losses imprisons the soul, leading to a state of perpetual suffering and stagnation. It's a cautionary tale, warning against the paralyzing effects of clinging to pain and regret, urging individuals to embrace the transformative power of acceptance and moving forward.

3. The Moon, The High Priestess, and The Nine of Swords

The Moon is enigmatic and shrouded in mystery. This card embodies the realm of the subconscious, illusions, and fears. It represents the hidden aspects of the mind, where truth is obscured, and uncertainties loom large. It signifies the eerie and inexplicable, often hinting at a journey through the unknown and unsettling realms of the psyche. 

The High Priestess, on the other hand, is a symbol of intuition, hidden knowledge, and spiritual wisdom, this card represents the uncharted depths of one's inner world. It signifies a connection to the subconscious, urging introspection and trust in intuition. It embodies the keeper of arcane secrets and esoteric truths. 

On the Nine of Swords, we see a figure in despair, surrounded by nine swords above his head. This card symbolizes anguish, anxiety, and nightmares. It signifies a period of intense mental distress, haunted by fears and worries, often leading to sleepless nights and mental torment.

The Horror Within the Combination

When The Moon, The High Priestess, and The Nine of Swords converge in a Tarot reading, they weave a haunting tapestry of horror, rooted in the labyrinthine depths of the human mind.

The Moon casts its enigmatic shadows, obscuring truth and amplifying irrational fears and anxieties. Paired with The High Priestess, this combination suggests a descent into the darkest recesses of the subconscious—an eerie journey into the unknown realms of the mind. It implies a time when intuition becomes clouded by uncertainties, leading to a sense of impending doom and an inability to discern reality from illusion. The Nine of Swords intensifies this sense of horror by amplifying mental anguish and torment. It paints a picture of relentless nightmares and overwhelming anxiety that gnaw at the very core of one's being. The figure in the card is consumed by dread, unable to find respite from the haunting fears that plague the mind.

This combination foretells a tale of psychological terror, where the true horror emerges from within—the insidious grip of irrational fears, overwhelming anxieties, and a sense of impending doom. It's a narrative that transcends external threats or supernatural forces, delving into the unsettling landscape of the human psyche.

The horror lies in the suffocating grip of the unknown, where shadows morph into malevolent specters, blurring the lines between reality and illusion. It serves as a cautionary tale, urging individuals to confront their inner fears and uncertainties, to navigate the murky waters of the subconscious with courage and clarity.

4. The Devil and The Eight of Swords

We already presented his darkness, the Devil, the symbol of bondage, temptation, and the entrapment caused by material desires, The Devil screams about a surrender to primal urges and vices. It embodies the consequences of unchecked indulgence. 

The Eight of Swords is in a way very similar to the Devil. Depicting a figure bound and blindfolded, surrounded by eight swords, this card symbolizes a state of mental confinement, self-imposed limitations, and feelings of helplessness or entrapment.

The Horror Within the Combination

When The Devil and The Eight of Swords converge within a Tarot reading, they weave a chilling narrative of entrapment and psychological confinement, rooted in the consequences of unchecked desires.

The Devil's presence signifies succumbing to temptations and the bondage caused by unchecked desires. Paired with the Eight of Swords, it suggests a scenario where the consequences of these indulgences lead to a state of mental imprisonment. The combination hints at a situation where one's own choices and vices become the chains that bind, plunging the individual into a suffocating state of helplessness and confinement.

This combination foretells a tale of horror wherein the repercussions of yielding to temptations and vices lead to a profound sense of mental entrapment. It embodies the chilling terror of feeling trapped in a situation, maybe even due to addictions, blinded by self-imposed limitations and surrounded by a sense of powerlessness—a narrative warning against the perils of yielding to desires without foresight and self-awareness.

In essence, this combination serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the horror that arises when one becomes ensnared in their own desires, leading to a harrowing state of mental confinement and helplessness, where the mind becomes its own prison.

5. The Moon and The Five of Pentacles

We’ve already talked about the Moon - shrouded in mystery and illusion, it represents the enigmatic realms of the subconscious, fears, and uncertainties. It symbolizes the journey through the unknown, where shadows obscure truth and uncertainties loom large. 

The Five of Pentacles, on the other hand, portray a very sad reality–depicting two figures in a desolate landscape, this card signifies financial hardship, isolation, and a sense of being left out in the cold. It embodies a feeling of deprivation, both materially and emotionally, and the struggle to overcome adversity.

The Horror Within the Combination

When The Moon and The Five of Pentacles converge in a Tarot reading, they weave a haunting narrative of horror that transcends mere financial struggles, tapping into profound emotional and psychological isolation.

The Moon's presence signifies a journey into the darkest recesses of the subconscious, where fears and uncertainties reign supreme. Paired with the Five of Pentacles, it suggests a scenario where financial hardship becomes entwined with haunting isolation—an eerie sense of being abandoned not only materially but also emotionally and spiritually. This combination embodies the horror of isolation amplified by the unknown and unseen fears lurking within the shadows. It paints a picture of profound desolation, where the chilling sense of being left out in the cold extends beyond tangible scarcity to an intangible, soul-deep loneliness—a haunting void that seems insurmountable. The horror lies not just in the financial adversity but in the psychological toll of enduring isolation and the chilling effect of unseen fears and uncertainties. 

Conclusion: The Haunting Narratives Within Tarot Combinations

The Tarot, with its rich symbolism and evocative imagery, weaves haunting narratives that often transcend mere divination, tapping into the depths of human experience. Within the mysterious configurations of cards, even in the realm of free tarot reading, certain combinations evoke chilling tales of horror, warning of potential pitfalls and psychological terrors.

These combinations—such as The Tower and The Ten of Swords, Death and The Hanged Man with The Five of Cups, The Moon alongside The High Priestess and The Nine of Swords, and other eerie pairings—embody harrowing stories of catastrophe, despair, and entrapment. They delve into the darkest recesses of the human psyche, depicting scenarios where inner demons, financial hardship, and unyielding anxieties collide, creating a tapestry of existential dread.

It's crucial to acknowledge that Tarot interpretations are not definitive prophecies set in stone. Instead, they serve as symbolic reflections of potential paths and psychological landscapes. These combinations, while foreboding, offer cautionary insights rather than predestined outcomes. They remind individuals of the complexities of life, urging introspection and mindfulness in navigating challenges.

The true power of the Tarot lies not in predicting an inescapable fate, but in offering guidance, prompting self-reflection, and empowering individuals to make informed choices. These combinations, although laden with eerie implications, invite contemplation rather than instilling fear.

Again, you can find Tanya Brum at Tarot Sparks, where she offers a free tarot reading and explores absolutely every tarot card meaning.

Guest post by Tanya Brum @ Tarot Sparks

Guidance for June - Practice and Focus

I decided to go back to basics for June and use my go-to deck: the Rider Waite Tarot Deck. These are the images I began with when learning to read the tarot. And, although I love all the new decks out there, this is my favorite, and will always be my main deck.

I created a small spread for the monthly reading. The top card gives a big picture overview of the month. The three center cards move from left to right progressing through the month. And, the last card offers a word of advice.

"How should we approach this month? What can we expect?"

Big Picture - Overview of Month - 8 of Pentacles - Looks like we have some work to do in June. It will be all about practicing your skills and putting them to work. Some of you may have just started a course, or you may be practicing your craft on your own.

Beginning - 10 of Wands - And of course, we must do it all at once right?! We always jump in with both feet. It's the way we do it. How else can we get it done? We may find ourselves with a limited amount of time. In fact, this may not represent the time spent on the skill itself, but the struggle to actually get the time to spend on it.

Middle - 7 of Wands - The heavy load will wear us down. We'll have to decide what's most important. We may have to turn some opportunities away. We may have to fight for our right to create, to grow, to practice our craft. It's time to make 'You' a priority.

End - King of Swords - We're all set to go by the end of the month. We've found our focus and know which we're headed. We've weeded through the many wands we carried in the beginning of the month and narrowed our tasks down, so we can be more focused.

Advice - 6 of Wands - You can do this! There's no question of your victory. The advice is to believe in yourself and your abilities. Put in the work, and you'll reach the goals you are striving toward.

You should approach this month knowing that it will be a lot of work, but also that it will be worth it in the end.

Have a great June!

Tarot Haiku - Temperance

Temperance

Pause for a moment,

Find your balance, your true north,

Seek your life purpose.

Related posts - Haiku

June Theme - Take Responsibility and Control

Well, I hope everyone made it out of those icky waters of the Six of Swords. It really wasn't as simple as I'd hoped it would be, moving through those issues, but we made it. And now, it's time to shake it off and take responsibility for what has passed and what is before each of us. It's time to take control of our lives.

June brings the Knight of Pentacles, an example of courage and faith in oneself. He has arrived after a long journey, and yet he and his horse remain strong and ready to work, ready to be everything he's meant to be.

"We are made wise not by the recollection of our past, but by the responsibility for our future."  ~ George Bernard Shaw

The bright yellow in this card makes me feel warm and confident of the progress we'll make in June. All we need to do is settle in and get to work. The type of work you engage in during June will depend on you, but for the most part, I'm guessing you know by now what's before you.

What is the one thing you keep avoiding? Improving your relationship, writing a novel, learning to paint, researching retirement, or even decluttering your house? And, if you're like me, there are probably multiple jobs before you. Just take it one step at a time and don't overwhelm yourself.

June presents an opportunity to practice the Five-Minute Rule. Sometimes it's hard to leave life behind in order to do what's really important to you. Try telling yourself that you only have to get five minutes of work done, that's all. You'll be amazed how many times after five minutes you'll be working away with no thought of time or those other duties and making progress on your real work. This is a great method to overcome procrastination.

"He is responsible, hardworking, uncomplaining." ~ Seventy-Eight Degrees of Wisdom, Rachel Pollack

We faced our fears in April, moved forward in May, and now it's time to take responsibility and control of ourselves, to be our own truths. It's so easy to blame others for the wrongs of the past, and even the missteps of our day to day activities. But, we really are in charge of our own actions and responses. But, of course, we've all made it through this part of the journey during the last two months. The important thing is to stay here, right here and now, in the present.

"In the long run, we shape our lives, and we shape ourselves. The process never ends until we die. And the choices we make are ultimately our own responsibility."  ~ Eleanor Roosevelt

Let us make the most of June and progress forward in our journey. Best wishes to you all.

May Theme - Move Forward

Ah, after spending April lost in our fears, isn't it nice to see some movement. I know the theme last month was to face your fears, but how many of us lost our way and got stuck and let that fear bear down on us. Well, I did even with the knowledge that it was coming. So much for being forewarned! But, I made it through, as I'm sure you all did. And, congratulations to those who stood tall and faced the fears head on.

So, as we move into May, there will be a shift. I actually began to feel this a few days early. But, I'm sure the decision to take a week off had a lot to do with the uplift in my feelings.

“Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass, it’s about learning how to dance in the rain.” – Vivian Greene

The Six of Swords brings with it some sorrow, despair, and turbulence, but it's the devil you know. It's the past that keeps nipping at your heels, interrupting those happy thoughts, or just brings your fears into speaker volume. You know what I'm talking about, those ghosts of the past, the skeletons. Of course, it may not be a distant past, but one you've just stepped out of.

You've escaped your cage of fear. It's time to move forward, through the difficult time. Whether you're at the edge of the situation or many years beyond, the important thing is to move passed it, into a new future.

If you've been with the difficulties for a long time, you may not even recognize them anymore. But, if you quiet your mind, I guarantee it will start screaming at you. It's that one (or more) thing you carry with you, day in and day out. You keep moving but it's there slowing you down.

"Though we carry our troubles with us we have adapted to them; they will not sink us or bear us down." ~ Seventy-Eight Degrees of Wisdom, Rachel Pollack

As you move through the month, remember every ending leads to a new beginning. It's time for us to see what's right around the corner.

Good luck in your travels.

April Theme - Face Your Fears

Rider-Waite Tarot

As we leap into April, you may find yourself coming to a standstill after your March successes. Isn't it crazy how we second-guess ourselves the closer we get to triumph, the closer we get to being happy?

Notice, the woman is not bound at the legs and the swords do not cage her in. She can leave this situation any time she wants. The problem is she can't use her eyes to see, or her arms to help guide her out. But, if she really wanted to leave, she would find a way - tiny steps forward, or even a shout for help.


"The clue to this card is the blindfold - symbolizing confusion, oppressive ideas, isolation from other people in similar situations; what political liberations call mystification' - keeping people down not by direct force, but by training them to believe in their own helplessness." ~ Seventy-Eight Degrees of Wisdom by Rachel Pollack

The bondage in this card is self-imposed. Your own thoughts are confusing and trapping you in a situation, in which you see no apparent way out. In order to move from this situation, you must face your fear, see things clearly, and make decisions based on an understanding of what's really going on.

"Each of us must confront our own fears, must come face to face with them. How we handle our fears will determine where we go with the rest of our lives. To experience adventure or to be limited by the fear of it." --Judy Blume

Some of us spend so much time looking into the past, readjusting it to what should have been that we fail to see today. A paralyzing fear takes hold when we try to adjust what we do today, and what that action will bring tomorrow. The fear of the unknown brings us to a standstill, so instead of moving forward and being present, we feel stuck in one place, in one routine.

In March, we focused on starting something, striving toward success. We found success, along with failure, but we kept going. You may have hit a wall, realized what success might bring, uncovered a fear you wasn't even aware of. Don't stop, push past the fear and keep achieving and failing.

April brings us the energy of fear, but it doesn't have to stop you in your tracks. Identify the fear, give it a name, and face it head on. Always remember, fear is usually of something of which does not exist at that moment. Our imagination creates the worse possible scenario in order to keep us safe. This is an automatic action of the brain, but you can adjust it, reinvent its reaction, and remove the feared scenario. Imagine something wonderful developing from your action.

"Fear keeps us focused on the past or worried about the future. If we can acknowledge our fear, we can realize that right now we are okay. Right now, today, we are still alive, and our bodies are working marvelously. Our eyes can still see the beautiful sky. Our ears can still hear the voices of our loved ones." --Thich Nhat Hanh

Activity for April: Write about your fears, about the imagined scenarios which stop you in your tracks, and delve into why you may be creating such scenes. And then, write about what you started in March, why you began, and what you hoped to accomplish. See your fear for what it is, your imagination, and continue toward success.

Good luck in your journey.

March Theme - Strive Toward Success

Today's Journey Tarot

As we step into March, we find ourselves filled with ideas and hopes of finding success. You may have decided to try something new this month, take a class, write a poem, or maybe you are nearing the end of a long project. The Six of Wands (Fire) brings with it the energy of likely success. No matter where you direct your energy the possibility for success is high this month.

Success is the sum of small efforts - repeated day in and day out. ~ Robert Collier


In the Rider Waite Tarot version, a man celebrates his victory with pride, while a crowd cheers him in his accomplishments. In the Today's Journey Tarot version, a runner is supported by a crowd, urging her toward the finish line.

Rider-Waite Tarot

Some see the Six of Wands as the card of Success, but notice the runner has not yet made it to the finish line. The rider may not be returning, but headed out to begin his journey. 

The Six of Wands is more of beginning, of continuing, than it is of completion. You've set upon the right direction, but there is work to do to actually arrive at success.

Think of the young scholar on his graduation day. Yes, he's achieved success and is recognized for his accomplishments, but this is only the beginning of a long journey set toward a larger success, a larger recognition.

Action is the foundational key to all success. ~ Pablo Picasso

So, as we step into this new month, expect success in your tasks and goals, but remember you must put in the work and sweat to make it to the finish line. Raise your arms in victory at each small breakthrough, but then gather your energies for the next step, and then the next.

Good luck in your journey.

7 of Swords - A different perspective

I pulled my card for the week - January 25 thru January 31 - and received the 7 of Swords. As usual, I jotted down my thoughts at first sight.

"carrying burdens, but these are not your own."

As many of you know, this is not the normal interpretation of this card. The Seven of Swords is a thief. He grabs what he can and tiptoes away, usually undetected. The card can represent you as the thief or it could be a warning of something being taken from you.

It's important when reading cards to follow your intuition, even if it goes against all that you know.

I'm very aware of what the card is referring to in my life. I feel this is a message for me to step back from the current situation. The battle is not my responsibility. It is not my fight. I need to hand those swords back to their owner and walk away.

When selecting a card for the week, the energy of the card can affect a multitude of people. The energy can touch a person individually. But it may also show itself on a larger scale, affecting a community or country, a public figure or situation.

In reflection of my interpretation of this card's energy for the week, here are some questions you may ask yourself.

Am I carrying burdens that don't belong to me?
Have I taken on a problem that has nothing to do with me?
Have I allowed myself to become distracted by someone else's challenge?
Am I really helping in this situation, or am I interfering?

Have a blessed week!

Your Personal Year Card and WORDs for 2016

When did people start setting WORDS instead of goals for the New Year? It seems I'm behind the times, yet again. This sounds like a great idea, let's see what I can come up with. You're welcome to follow along and create your own words for the year.

I'm picking three words, using three methods of inspiration.

I decided to start with my Personal Year Card to get some insight on the energy surrounding me for the year. For this, you add your birth month+birthday+current year, and reduce to a number below 23, which is then matched to a Major Arcana Card.



This year I find myself in the Personal Year of 13  - the year of DEATH. The energy of this card is about transformations, the letting go of something old to make room for something new, and endings opening the way for new beginnings.




I chose the Wisdom of the Oracle, a gift for my December Birthday, for my second source of inspiration. My random pull produced the number 13 card. (Right? I was a little surprised, too.) The Fork in the Road is all about making a decision, choosing a path, and moving in a new direction.


Another birthday present, the Under the Roses Lenormand became my third source of inspiration. I pulled two since they are read in pairs. I was pleasantly surprised by the cards pulled: the Letter/the Journal. I believe we can take this at face value - Journal/Book Writing.

So, what have I chosen for my word of 2016? Change, Forward, and Create.

Change - allow and embrace all changes in life and within self.
Forward - move forward, making necessary choices along the way.
Create - allow time and intuition to guide you in your creations and remember to enjoy the journey.

What words have you set for this year?

The Importance of Context in a Tarot Reading

One of the most important elements of a successful tarot reading is context. Setting clear intentions from the beginning, with a tarot question and spread, will help create boundaries for the tarot reading. By looking at the cards within these boundaries, your interpretations will be clearer and provide more useful information.

To demonstrate, I've taken three cards, created three different sets of boundaries and interpreted the readings based on the intention of each.

The first reading is a general reading, which basically reveals general information about a current situation. Although this isn't as direct as a presented question, it can provide a lot of useful information. The spread I've set for this reading is the three card - past, present, and future.

General Reading - Spread: Past, Present, Future

You recently experienced a much needed break. This may have taken the form of meditation, daily napping, or simply pauses throughout the day to rest your brain. There is the possibility this break wasn't your idea at all, a sickness which kept you in bed, a work layoff, or maybe even an imposed vacation. Whatever has pushed you to take this break, you've been able to have the time to rest your thoughts, clear your head.

The results have been a renewal of your hopes and dreams. You stand in a moment when you know anything is possible. You are capable of success, with no limitations. Your positivity factor is at an all-time high.

Opportunity is before you. You are faced with a time to plan for your future. The wands are energized by action. So don't just plan. It is important that you also act on these plans, to take advantage of the opportunity before you.

~~~~~

For the second reading, I pulled a single card to assist in developing a question. 10 of Pentacles - What steps can I make to get the most out of this gift of life? The spread is a progressive style, each card leading to the next.

What steps can I make to get the most out of this gift of life?

Allow yourself time for personal reflections and mental rest. You may find meditation or yoga a helpful tool in making these moments more productive. Tarot and other spiritual tools may also be a part of getting in touch with your true self. The important thing is to allow your mind to rest and approach life with a clear head. (4 of Swords)

Believe in yourself and your ability to manifest your dreams. Hope is an important ingredient. It can carry you through life's challenges and joys. (17 Star)

Set tangible goals and follow through on your plans. Hope alone can keep you strong, but without a vision you won't get very far. Don't waste time waiting for your dreams to come true. Take the steps to acquire them. (3 of Wands)

~~~~~

For the third reading, I pulled another card to assist in developing the question. 5 of Cups - How can I move past the pain and allow myself a new outlook? The spread is similar to the above progressive style, each card revolving into the next.

How can I move past the pain and allow myself a new outlook?

First, you must allow yourself to work through the pain. Emotions are a state of mind, a result of one's experiences. Find a quiet place and assume a comfortable position. Allow the emotions to flow through you. Meditate on its source. Question its meaning, its purpose. (4 of Swords) As you work through the issues, allow a bright white light to fill the holes produced by the lifting pain. (17 Star) When you feel yourself completely filled with light, begin searching for the steps toward your new future. (3 of Wands)

What does it look like? Where do you see yourself going? What can you do to get you there? Are there other's around you? Are they familiar or do strangers welcome you into this new light? After you feel you've exhausted all avenues of approach into this new bright world, take a deep breath and allow yourself to come back into focus with now.

Take a moment to look around. Are the colors brighter? Do you see things you might have missed during your state of gloom? When you feel ready, you might want to drink some water. And as soon as possible, jot down some thoughts of your experience; record any insights you might have had about your future.

~~~~~

I wish you happy journeys in your tarot development. As with any venture, practice, practice, and then a little more practice. 

Release and Renewal

A message from Spirit for the week of August 4-10:

Let go of what holds you back, allow yourself to step out of your invisible bonds and let go of past nightmares.

There’s a lot of blocked and wasted energy here.

The Hanged Man stands upright in his reversed position. Past issues have been released, yet you continue to hang on. You avoid walking away. You're wasting energies standing still like this. It’s time to move forward.

The bonds of fear of the 8 of Swords no longer hold you captive. You stay now out of obligation, maybe even because of some sort of love or habit. Your trap has been sprung. You can step away from this.

The nightmare of the 9 of Swords has dissipated in the light of day. All negative thought and worry are gone. Open your eyes to the brighter days before you.

The sum of the cards offers you a bit of advice—a clear message revealed. (12+8+9=29=11 Justice) It’s time for you to give yourself a fair chance. The verdict is in and you are free—to go, to be, to live fully.  

Have a blessed week.

Get Your Mojo Back

Last week, Ellen of Greylady's Hearth wrote a post about a three card spread to help find and get back your Mojo. I decided to steal the spread and give it a test run. The results were pretty amazing.

To do this spread, you will need to separate the Majors from the Minors. The first card is pulled from the Major pile and represents your Mojo, in hiding. The second and third are pulled from the Minor pile. The second crosses the first, revealing what is blocking your Mojo. And, the third suggests the action needed to recover your Mojo.

My Mojo - 17 The Star - My personal power can be found within my faith, hope, and generous soul. This card signifies a blessing from the universe, being open to the healing process, and the ability to go on no matter what. As I looked at the image, the distribution of the water drew my attention. Notice the stream going into the pool is thicker than the one flowing onto the earth. This made me think, "To get your wish, you must put your heart and soul into the process, which will make the physical part easier." Do what you love and it won't feel like work.

What's blocking my Mojo - 10 of Swords - A unexpected failure or blow to my esteem is blocking me from using my personal power. The image shows a man on the ground stabbed by ten swords. Swords represent the thought process. "This man has been taken down by his own thoughts." Negative thinking, feeling like 'the victim', and letting it all get me down.

What to do - King of Wands - "Just do it!"  This King sets his goals and sticks to them. He accepts opportunities presented to him and doesn't shy away from a healthy challenge. As he looks back at The Star, he's evaluating and studying his wish. He plans for what needs to be done and starts working toward the goal he's set for himself. So, what I need to do is follow this King's lead, become him.

Check out Daily Tarot Girl's forecast for the week - June 9-15. It's amazing how similar the advice of what to do in this spread matches her forecast.

Have you lost your Mojo? Give this spread a try and make some steps to get it back. Need some Tarot Guidance? 

Hope you all have a wonderful week.

5 of Wands - The Conflict Spread

When you practice or connect with your cards, what do you do if you have nothing to ask?

Here's one solution. Ask the cards. Shuffle the deck, pull one card, and form a question or create a spread based on the card you pull.

The Five of Wands presents conflict, tension, and competition. A lot of energy is being used, or wasted, by the boys as they compete with one another.

But wait, are they fighting?

Perhaps, they are brainstorming on how to accomplish something together. Conflict and tensions rise as they devise a plan. Each boy has a separate idea and a different role to play, but for it all to work they must join together and agree.

This made me think of internal conflicts.

As you approach a new project, a new relationship, or even take a trip to a new location, do you weigh the options of the approach and sometimes even the possible outcomes?

At the beginning of the year, I found myself struggling for the best approach to certain areas of my life. I've come away with the knowledge that all the worry in the world won't change the direction or outcome. If anything, it slows the progression. Now when I find myself fretting over things I have no 'real' control over, I close my eyes and say, "Let it go, Let it be." It's working at the moment, keeping me balanced and sane.

All of this leads us to a tarot spread based on the 5 of Wands.

Positions - 1.Where am I wasting energy, 2. Where should I focus my energy, 3. What is my greatest weakness, 4. What is my greatest strength, 5. How can I end the conflict.

I've laid the cards out in a horseshoe shape. You should have a focus topic for this spread.

Focus: My Creative Writing

1) Where am I wasting energy - 2 of Wands reversed

I'm wasting energy by doubting my plan, over-thinking the situation, and being unsure of my direction. Basically, I'm thinking too far ahead, worrying over the outcome.

2) Where should I focus my energy - 7 of Pentacles

I should focus my energy on getting the job done, take short breaks to assess the progress, and acknowledge my past achievements.

3) What is my greatest weakness - 9 of Cups

My greatest weakness is wanting too much, putting too much focus on the rewards.

4) What is my greatest strength - 6 of Cups

My greatest strength is my ability to look at the past and recognize how far I've come. Or, this could signify my inner child, my creativity. Either way, I'm strong because of my past and my ability to create.

5) How can I end the conflict - Strength

To end the conflict, to bring it all together, I need to be patient, be strong, and have faith in myself.

Overview- I waste energy thinking about the situation. I should focus my energy on doing the first task, and then I can take a moment to assess the situation and plan for the next step.  I need to quit focusing on the possible rewards and future. Instead I should recognize how far I've come and allow my inner child to lead the way. I have the strength to achieve success, but I must be patient when it comes to progress and have faith in my abilities. Building a writing career takes a lot of work, patience, and faith. Only the strong can survive.

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What question do you get when looking at the 5 of Wands? Did you develop a Tarot Spread from this card? I'd love to hear what you did with exercise.

Understanding the Celtic Cross Tarot Spread

The Celtic Cross is one of the oldest and most used Tarot spreads, yet many new readers avoid this complicated looking layout. Once you understand the positions, learn patterns to look for, and discover which cards to connect, the Celtic Cross can supply you with a wonderful interpretation with amazing insights.

There are different versions floating around, with different positions and positional meanings. Once you’ve decided upon the version you wish to follow, practice and you will soon see how easy it is to master this spread.

The version I’m using feels right to me, but you may prefer one of the others. The best advice I can give is pick one and stick with it. The learning curve is much easier when your brain can automatically recall the positions and their meanings.

 1. Present, where you stand.

 2. Block, what stands in your way.

 3. Foundation, motivation, the why.

 4. Past, what has happened.

 5. Expectations, what could happen.

 6. Future, what will happen.

 7. Fear, what you don’t want.

 8. Environment, outside influences.

 9.  Hope, what you want.

10. Outcome


Question: A general reading for the week - April 7-13.

The first thing that draws my attention about this spread is the fact that six out of ten cards are in the reversed position. This shows a lot of suppressed energies.

The next thing I look for is the abundance or absence of suits. They are all present, giving the reading an elemental balance.  

Now, let’s look at some positions.

The first position shows where you are at this moment, with the second position revealing what’s standing in your way and holding you back.

The 9 of Cups reversed indicates a delay in satisfaction. What should be a success, a dream come true, shown in the upright position of this card, has been put on hold. The 9 of Swords reveals what is keeping you in this position, blocking your movements. I usually term this card ‘the Nightmare Card’. It shows mental distress, raw fear, but it’s usually not as bad as it seems. Things go bump in the night, but it is rarely a monster creeping up on you.

With ‘the Nightmare Card’ showing up as the block, I move to look at the seventh position to reveal the fear. The Fool reversed instantly makes me think of not being able to take a leap of faith, holding back rather than jumping forward. You are afraid to take that step without knowing what will come next.

Let’s take a look at past, present, and future. The fourth position shows what has happened to put you where you are now. The 3 of Pentacles, which I see as ‘the Artist Card’, falls in a reversed position. This reveals the lack of using your skills and knowledge to complete your work. It’s not that you don’t have them, or that you are not capable, you just aren't using them, or applying them to the best of your ability.

Your inactivity has left you unsatisfied and unsuccessful, because you fear what will come after you take that leap. Sounds like procrastination in its truest state.

Position six shows the future with the 7 of Swords reversed. ‘The Thief Card’ indicates something being stolen, but when reversed it is returned. Notice in its position the figure looks back at the Nightmare card. I see this as the release of fear, the return of peace of mind. Clarity will come as the clouds and worries dissipate.

Position five shows what you expect to happen; it may or may not come into play. The 2 of Swords reversed reveals renewed action, making a move rather than denying yourself choice. Looking from the 2 of Swords to the 7 of Swords, notice her two swords have been stabbed into the ground, the block diminished. He has grabbed up the new swords, new thoughts and ideas. I believe the expectations of moving forward will come to play out in the return of new ideas and thoughts.

Position three shows the foundation of the situation, the why of your current position. The Knight of Pentacles reversed expresses boredom with routine. There’s a need to shake things up and try new ways, but with this Knight routine, reliability, and commitment are his platform, it is the way he is. It may be a hard task to bring this guy right-side up and moving forward.

Outside influences are revealed with position eight. Here we have the Knight of Cups. I normally look at the Court Cards as reflections on the client, but in this position of environmental aspects it is outside of that person. In this case, we have a male influence over the client.

The Knight of Cups is a loving, emotional, and supportive man. He’s the one you want around when you've given up and have no need to return to reality. The only problem I see here is he may not be able to help pull the Knight of Pentacles back into action. He may not even understand what the problem is. His view on life is more emotional, while yours may be more practical and driven.

The ninth position reveals hopes, desires, attitude, and state of mind. The Ten of Wands usually screams overburdens, but here I’m seeing it as the burdens of success, the steady forward movement filled with activity. You want the responsibility which comes with achievement; you want to be busy and active.

The Outcome comes in the form of the 6 of Wands, ‘the Victory Card’. The rider has achieved his goals and is returning for his rewards. Success is clear in this outcome card. It’s always nice to have this sort of card fall into this position.

Overview: You are in a state of stress, worry, and dissatisfaction. Boredom with routine and lack of activity has put you here. To move forward, you will need to rid yourself of the fear and take the first step, let down your guard and allow yourself to experience new thoughts and seek out a new way of doing things. This will lead you to heavy responsibilities and many tasks, but in the end it will all come together in success. And when you need a break from reality, seek out your supportive knight and enjoy the emotional, loving side of life. It doesn’t always have to be work and progress. Sometimes you just need to live and love.

A Great Tarot Question from Tarot Author, Sasha Graham

Last week, Ellen @ Greylady’s Hearth mentioned an interview at Daily Tarot Girl, which was an interesting interview with Tarot Author, Sasha Graham. I highly recommend you check it out.

One of the things mentioned was a good question to use with the Tarot.

Sasha’s question: “What can I do right now in this moment that will bring me pleasure and also positively impact my future?” To me, this is a very powerful question to ask and as you will see in a moment the results are clear and informative.

Kate’s question: “What do I need to see or know right now?” This is another great question and very similar to my own go-to question.

I've changed the wording slightly from Sasha’s to better fit my approach for this reading.

Question: What can I do this week that will bring me pleasure and also positively impact my future?

Look at all those Wands! It’s going to be an ACTION week. I love how it flows; this is who you need to be and what you need to do.

The Queen sits upon her throne. Her expression is sure and steady. Of all the Queens, this one seems the busiest to me. She has a career, takes care of a family, and is active in the community. She knows what she wants and is determined to achieve her goals. She can and will have it all.

I need to be strong and determined. In order to achieve my goals, I will need to play many roles and succeed in each. This isn't about multi-tasking; it is about multi-achieving. I can work my full-time job, have an organized home, and achieve my goals. Determination is the key.

The 9 of Wands encourages me to rise to the challenges before me in order to reach success. I must stand my ground, defend what is mine, and face the challenge. I am the only one who can do this for me and my goals.

The 3 of Wands reveals delays due to poor planning. It highlights unrealistic strategies and a need to re-evaluate. I tend to over-extend myself. The ‘I can have it all’ attitude is wonderful, but there is a need to be real. One can only do so much in the allotted time of a day. Priorities need to be set, and plans need to be made.

Overview – Approach the week in action mode. Believe in yourself and your ability to succeed and take actions to achieve your goals. There will be challenges, but you can and will face them. You may experience delays if you do not carefully plan your strategy for achievement.  

Enjoy the week! Don't take no for an answer, and eliminate can't from your vocabulary.

Jumping Into Spring

Ellen over at Greylady's Hearth presented a Rebirth Spread last week, which she discovered from Chloe of Inner Whispers. I recommend both blogs for your reading pleasure.

As we move out of Winter into Spring, it seems only natural for us to go through a re-birthing of sorts. Shedding the coats, we jump head first into Spring.

Here is a spread to discover what awaits you on the other side of your rebirth.

1)What darkness am I leaving behind?
2)What new hope is approaching?
3)What can help me find my bearings at this time?

Here's what I discovered about my own re-birthing:

1)What darkness am I leaving behind? The Page of Wands is the messenger of creativity and inspiration. I see this card's appearance as a sign of the arrival of this messenger. The darkness has draped over me, clouding my creative senses. The time has passed. The Page will lead me forward, out of the darkness.

2)What new hope is approaching? The High Priestess sits upon her throne waiting at the doorway to the higher realm. All who arrive shall be allowed to pass, but one must have the desire to go beyond this doorway. My new hope will come from my inner and higher self. All I need to do is allow the connection to be.

3)What can help me find my bearings at this time? I LOVE this card. The 3 of Pentacles is all about using your skills and knowledge to create. This is the ultimate ARTIST card. The lesson within this card is practice makes perfect, use your talents to create anything you wish. Getting more involved with my work and creations will help me in my journey at this time.

Overview - Follow your creative inspiration, listen to you inner voice, and get to work on your creative projects.

Thanksgiving Harvest Tarot Spread

Scythe User

We celebrate Thanksgiving Day in many ways: such as football, parades, movie marathons, and don't forget all the glorious food. It is a day of family gatherings, giving thanks and forgiveness.

My fondest childhood memories of Thanksgiving Day include:

• Turkey, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie. Yum!
• Macy's Day Parade
• Family television watching - Miracle on 34th Street and Home Alone at the top of the viewing list. (We are not, for the most part, Football people.)

As an adult, sad to say, Thanksgiving Day doesn't offer much on tradition. It is, however, a day of reflection, gratitude, thankfulness and prayer.

Last year, I offered a Thanksgiving Tarot Spread focused on the balancing of the elements.

This year, with a little helper, I've designed a Thanksgiving Tarot Harvest Spread. See my little helper? That's Mr. Tike, one of my two kitty children. The spread below is intended to be a Scythe, as pictured above. Notice the one position is one handle, the five position is the other. Okay, it's not perfect, but it works.

1) Seeds purposely planted

2,3,4) Growth

5) Seeds subconsciously planted

6,7,8) Growth

9,10,11) Harvesting of the seeds

12) A seed for the next harvest

An Example Reading

1) Seed purposely planted – 3 of Cups (reversed) - overindulgence

You wanted it all, so you set out to grasp it all.

2,3,4) Growth - 10 of Swords (reversed) - emerging from turmoil, 18 Moon - self-deception, 5 of Swords (reversed) - clearing of negativity, end of battle

As the seed grew, you found strength within the goal, emerging from feelings of defeat, deceived yourself of your progress, but then realized your mistake.

5) Seed subconsciously planted - 7 of Cups – daydreams, lack of focus

You chose too many directions and scattered your focus.

6,7,8) Growth - 0 Fool – leaping into unknown, 8 Strength – self-confidence, 7 of Wands – having an advantage and courage

As the seed grew, you jumped in, with self-confidence. You knew without a doubt you could do it all.

9,10,11) Harvesting of the seeds - 14 Temperance (Reversed) – overdoing it, unbalanced, 13 Death (Reversed) – resisting change, King of Cups (Reversed) – selfish, emotionally self-absorbed

Now that harvest time is here you come face to face with the imbalance, yet you continue to resist the needed changes and find yourself lost within your own emotions.

12) A seed for the next harvest – 6 of Wands – Victory

The seed to plant is one of victory, success, and recognition.

Overview – Notice the reflections of the two seeds. Both consciously and subconsciously, you wanted it all and went in too many directions. On both levels, you went after the goals with strength and determination, and obviously you still intend to get it all. But now, you see what you did wrong, even if you continue to resist the need to find a balance in goals. Learn from the mistakes, the scattered energies, and focus on the main goal – plant a seed of victory and find next year’s harvest one of success and recognition.

Plant your seeds wisely.

Have a Happy Thanksgiving Day!

Finding Balance – Two of Pentacles, Temperance

When I think of balance, of the many outlets of interest in my life, of my many self-imposed obligations, these two cards – Two of Pentacles and Temperance – always come to mind. I’ve come to expect and relish the sight of these within my readings. Their appearance gives me hope of being close to that wonderful moment of balance, moderation, and sanity, if you will.

Two of Pentacles

Two of Pentacles - The individual juggles his concerns, his obligations, and his problems. Notice the infinity sign loops around these, making it impossible for him to let go of either side of the coins. He must make it work, or drop them both. His expression is one of concern, but as he jostles around from foot to foot, there’s no doubt he will win the battle. Yet, behind him two ships are tossed about upon the sea, appearing to be on the same route, destined to collide. By finding a balance within his directions and interests, the sea will calm and the two pentacles shall become one.

Temperance

The Temperance – The winged angel stands balanced between the physical world (dry land) and the subconscious (the water). Within her hands, she holds two cups, alternating their contents back and forth, creating a balanced mixture. The Temperance offers a higher balance than the two of pentacles. While the first card deals with the physical portions of life, the Temperance represents peace and balance within the soul, the mind, the subconscious and super-conscious. She does not struggle, but works slowly in an attempt to make life calm and stress-free.

As I fight to find my own balance, I work to blend my interests, to create a foundation which will support it all. Yes, I could give up something and let one pentacle fall. But, in the spirit of the Two of Pentacles, it could and probably would all come falling down.

My writing is a part of me; it is a driving force which must be allowed to grow. The tarot is a motivational tool, a source of higher learner, a guiding star in life’s journey. Together, they supply a physical, a mental, and a spiritual journey.

However, as I move forward, life itself imposes limitations, a need for balance and moderation. In attempt to find such, I’m cutting back my blog posts, on both Tarot Guidance and Footsteps of a Writer, to twice a month.

This balancing of obligations and time is not only an attempt to allow more time for my fiction writing, but also to allow my creativity more room to grow.

Ideas for further exploration of the tarot continue to sprout but as it is now, I don’t have the time to take these journeys. Some of these roads lead toward tarot-based fiction, but also tarot-based non-fiction. I’ve spent the last couple of years, jotting notes as they come to me. Now it’s time to explore these notions further, so I can eventually share them with you.

As I move into a new phase of this journey of life, I thank all of you who have shared your thoughts, followed my writings and supported my steps. I’ve met many interesting people along the way, and look forward to meeting more.

Happy April Fools’ Day

Today, in tradition, is a day to pull pranks and jokes, but I’d like to take this day in a different direction – a tarot direction.

What could be a better day for new directions, leaps into the unknown, and taking a chance? In the tradition of The Fool, I ask that you take a moment to test new waters, stretch your wings, and do something new today.

This is what we are about to do here at Tarot Guidance - new material, new directions, a jump off the ledge – destination unknown. Comments from my last posting indicated the desire to see more personal posts, more tarot reviews, and more self-discoveries through the tarot.

Please join us as we begin a new journey.

In celebration of April Fools’ Day, I’ve created a new spread – The Fool’s Spread. Unique name, right?

In the Rider-Waite version of The Fool, he is about to step off the edge of a cliff, with his companion close at his heels. He carries a bag, which holds all he will need for his journey. Within his left hand, he holds a white rose, a reminder of his desired goal. In the background, the snow-covered mountain offers a reminder that the road will not be without challenges. The sunshine at his back offers reassurance of his success, if he only makes that first step.

The Fool is all about taking chances, beginning a new journey, and having blind faith in your desires.

The Fool’s Spread

What is my desired goal (the rose)?

What is my first step toward a new direction (the cliff)?

What is the most important item to carry along (the bag)?

Who will be my companion, who will follow (the dog)?

What obstacles can I expect (the mountain)?

What successes await me (the sun)?

Sample Reading:

My desired goal, indicated by the reversed 4 of Cups, is to bring an end to my stagnant situation. Over the last few weeks, I’ve felt as if I’m spinning my wheels in place. It’s time to get up, and get moving forward. My interests and attentions are being scattered in too many directions. I must put my focus on a tighter target to find a forward motion.

My first step, indicated by the Knight of Cups, is to be open to new experiences, offers, and invitations. Something is coming, but I must be available to accept this gift. Notice the cloud within the 4 of Cups and the Knight both extend a cup outward. The opportunity is there for me, all I have to do is accept it.

The reversed Magician indicates I have the tools needed to achieve my goals, yet I’m not using them. Within my bag, I can find the elements, the magic, and the skills I need to move forward in my journey. If I don’t use the tools I already possess, my goal will remain unattainable.

The reversed Chariot indicates an unbalance, going astray from the main path and a lack of control. Rather than going straight, the horses are fighting against one another, very possibly spinning the wheels of the chariot, allowing me to stay in one spot – the stagnant situation. In the position of the companion, this may be an indicator to be careful who I trust. A helping hand is not always helpful. Be cared to lead, not to follow, and concentrate on the goal.

The obstacles, presented by the Queen of Swords, will be my independence, my natural desire to go it alone. If I can’t put aside this part of my personality, I may not be prepared to accept the opportunities being offered. This may also be a reminder to allow emotions to help in discovering desires, rather than rational thinking.

The success, offered by the reversed Ten of Pentacles, will be delayed. This is a card of great abundance, but it will not come easily or very soon. There’s a lot of work to be done to turn this card upright and reach success.

Also notice the absence of the fire element, another indication of no forward motion.

Overview – My goal is clear, as is the reasons the success continues to be a far reach. By taking each element of this reading and adjusting my thinking and actions, I can begin stepping forward toward my desired goal and eventually find success, a huge success with the Ten of Pentacles representation of such.

Have a wonderful April Fools’ Day, and don’t forget to try something new. Till next time, may your blessings be plentiful.