The assignment: create a character who needs to embrace an archetype in their life/circumstance, however they are experiencing some serious shadow elements which block their path to resolution.

Let’s Practice

Picture this: you are staring at a reversal in a spread and feel stumped. It makes no sense and you’re about to open a book to tell you the meaning. I would encourage you to take a moment to go through the WIND method before consulting someone else’s meanings. Let’s go through a simple example using the first card in the Major Arcana, The Fool.

The Fool card, in the most general sense, indicates the start of a new journey and adventure, packed with his companion and ready to go. The cliff our Fool is walking off gives the impression that the future is indeed unknown - will they fall if they take that great leap of faith? With any new journey comes inherent risk, and this is where our reversal comes into play. Let’s take this card through the WIND method.

W: Weakened energy of the card meaning due to being overpowered by other forces. The new journey/adventure is ahead, but if surrounding cards indicate a hesitation, this energy can bring anxiety. All the “what ifs” can dampen any excitement which would typically be present.

I: Inverted meaning of the card. Our Fool is headed on a new adventure, but perhaps he has not thought it through completely when considering the risks. The element of recklessness and true foolishness is a strong energy here. Best to stop and take a moment to reconsider options.

N: Negative influence on Seeker. New elements of life are not always positive or desired. If we must face it, we will need to keep our eyes open and heads up - do the best we possibly can given the circumstances.

D: Delay before the outcome will materialize. Not all factors have fully matured yet. The “not yet, but soon” rationale. Perhaps this new journey is still not here, but surrounding cards indicate that it could happen once the seeker is ready.

Take context from the surrounding cards to see what fits the cards - they dictate the story of our reversed card.

• Is there a court card looking at The Fool? What would that person have to say?

• Are there any swords pointing at The Fool?

• Are there people in any of the surrounding cards? What are they doing?

• Is there a dominant suit (pentacles, wands, cups, swords) or are they Major Arcana around The Fool? What does that have to say?

• If there are Major Arcana cards, what are the overall archetypes/themes?

• What does the numerology mean, if you pulled a card with numbers 1 though 10?

Write open-ended notes to see what’s happening with our Fool. It opens up new possibility and depth for our spread.

Let’s Apply This to Creative Stories - The Spread

I didn’t have a solid plan, initially, when thinking about what kind of spread would work best for this example. The way I work is purely intuitive. Sometimes I have a picture in my mind of what I should create, such as the placement of the cards in the spread, but not what the cards’ positions represent. Or it’s the opposite, where I know what the card positions will generally address and need to create the physical placement of the cards in the spread.

For this one, I played it fast and loose. I knew only two things for sure - the Major Arcana needs to be separated out and shuffled. The remaining cards, the Minor Arcana, should be shuffled together. After some experimenting, this is what poured out of my brain.

The scenario is to create a character who needs to embrace an archetype in their live/circumstance, however they are experiencing some serious shadow elements which block their path to resolution.

1 - Desired Archetype: Strength

Pull a card from the Major Arcana stack, and lay it out in the normal position (non-reversed) even if you deal it out reversed.

Strength is a straightforward card which needs little explanation. Our character needs to pull up their strength to make a choice between two tough paths. To embody the strength, the hard choice may not feel good, but the best under the circumstances.

The Conflict (Card 2 v. Card 3)

2 - Eight of Wands (Reversed)

I chose to use the Inverted meaning of the card here. Unpleasant life circumstances are moving quickly. Note the flying wands in the card, and that they are flying into the group of cards to the right, which represents the tough choice. However, what’s flying quickly is rife with issues and disruptions.

3 - Queen of Swords (Reversed)

I chose to use the Negative influence on Seeker to determine what this means for our character. This character is essentially putting their head in the sand when if comes to making good choices in this unpleasant situation. The Queen of Swords is generally an unemotional type - logic and rational thoughts which leach to decisions. They are not recognizing their emotions in a healthy manner, and are instead expressing volatility in extreme ways, such as using escapism (ex. drugs or alcohol) to mask self-pity, making poor decisions, or denying their emotions to become numb and cold. Either way, it has a negative impact on our character. Also note that her face is directly looking at the cards on the right, the hard choice.

The Hard Choice (Card 5 v. Card 6)

4 - Two of Swords (Reversed)

Pull this card specifically out of the Minor Arcana stack - this represents the difficult choice. Notice that the swords are pointing respectively towards each choice below. See how the imagery dictates what needs to be done?

5 - Ten of Wands (Reversed)

I chose to use the weakened energy of the card meaning due to being overpowered by other forces. We know by this point in our spread that our character is at a crossroads, and these difficult circumstances influence the Ten of Wands. Remember that quick little note I made about numerology above? We had the Eight of Wands as the quick-moving unpleasant situation coming down hard on our character. Now, we are at the Ten of Wands - its here in its full glory, representing its full manifestation. The questions for this position and card combination are - (1) does our character crumble under the weight of life and give up?, (2) will doing that make anything better?, or (3) are they unable to recognize the full weight of it?

6 - Six of Swords (Reversed)

I chose to use the delay before the outcome will materialise meaning for our character. The sixes generally indicate movement. Seeing the Six of Swords in the reversed position here as an opposition to the heavy burden of the Ten of Wands (Reversed) is pretty clear - that boat isn’t moving easily, in fact it is likely hugging the banks and trudging along in water too shallow. This is straight-up fear for our character, and they cannot escape the conflict - it must be confronted despite feeling stuck in the mud.

This story could be placed in a creative story - in any genre. It is adaptable - if any of those elements need a backstory or clarification, simply pull a few cards on that element to see what the story has to say.

I put this spread together in a very purposeful way, choosing cards that show this method at its best. We have multiple things going on in the spread to help the reader use their judgement based on the images pointing to one another with swords and wands, numerology, and one example each of the four WIND elements of reading reversals.

One of my favorite tarot books is Mary K. Greer’s “Complete Book of Tarot Reversals”. Buy it. You’ll thank me later. It’s my go-to, my tried and true.

Feed me your comments - I love chatting with all of you 🔥

• What do you think of this spread?

• Does it help illustrate the functions of tarot reversals in spreads?

• What are your primary challenges with working with reversals?

Catch up on part 1:

I use tarot for creative inspiration. It’s a natural move for me to turn to the tools I am most comfortable using. I developed a loose way for developing plots points for stories, using a 12 card spread (and options for expanding any of them as needed). Keep in mind that these spreads are flexible to suite the project you are working on, so the number of cards can be pulled back or pushed larger.

The Creative Writing Story Tarot Spread

What you need:

• A basic tarot deck, thoroughly shuffled

• A journal/notebook and writing tool for notes, or take notes on your laptop/tablet/phone

Note: All quotations in this article are pulled from “Tarot Reversals” by Mary K. Greer.

The Spread:

Let’s start with an example spread, which I created especially for this post. I have never seen these cards together before this, so let’s see what I can come up with. They laid out organically!

Character Backstory

The character backstory is something you can use to pepper details throughout the story. It is the primary motivation behind the main character’s actions. And! So important! Just because there are only 2 cards here, doesn’t mean you are limited. If you want to grab more details of the backstory, you can build out all kinds of details by pulling out a few more cards. I highly recommend taking notes as you go to reference for critical character development as you form your story.

First, look at them individually and write down your initial thoughts and impressions of the image. I have been working with the cards for many years, so I have some preconceived meanings. I try to throw them out for story creation to widen the possibility. Once you have this done, look at them as a pair - how do these card themes relate? Then, look at card meanings for extra depth and complexity. Use your intuition! Don’t throw away your first thoughts on the relationship between the cards - that’s usually the answer.

Card 1: General theme of their life up to where the story starts

• Justice (Major Arcana)

Justice’s image immediately brings the idea of judges, moral compass, knowing right from wrong, and the scales the person holds indicates legal/matters of law. Consulting my Tarot Reversals book (because it is my favorite), I tend to quickly scan the text and notice which phrases jump out at me. This is important. If it jumps out at you, this is the part you need to pay attention to. I see the phrase “you are called to account for your actions”, “balancing needs and desires with others” in regard to “contacts . .. courts, lawsuits, investigations”. Try to define who the person in the card is - could be a judge, or the person facing judgement. Also, “being true to one’s self and own nature, focus being fair and just in all things”. Pretty close to the image, right?

Card 2: Most important experience which contributed to who they are today

• The Moon (Major Arcana)

The Moon card is ambiguous. Based on the imagery, we see a crab emerging from the sea to start down the path, and must pass between animals (a wolf and dog) on two sides (fierce vs tame). In the distance, there are two pillars lining the path (a gateway to somewhere unknown?), and a combo sun/moon over everything (an impossibility - is this a dream realm?). Putting on my intuitive eyes for just the imagery, I see the crab emerging into an unknown realm, the new path into the unconscious. The crab reminds me of the astrological symbol of Cancer, and they are generally emotional and sensitive. The actual meaning of this card is one of intuition, shadow work, dream work, and also the unknown (and that can be either positive or negative). This is one of the most complex cards in the deck, and traditional meanings paint it in a more negative light, using keywords like terror, danger, instinctual fears, deception . . . you get the idea. I think the key here is “unknown”, which, when passing through those gates brings this element from the unconscious. It’s not always pretty and nice. It’s shadow work.

I feel that this character is one who may have had an intuitive “epiphany”, that moment of realization of what is unknown is inside of them, and the new path before them requires them to trust the dream realm’s messages. What is that message? It will take some work, and won’t always be pleasant or easy.

Here’s my take on Justice and The Moon as a character backstory:

Taken together, I see a character who grew up in an environment where a strict moral code was enforced. They may have faced judgement from from wanting to break free from this rigid code of conduct. Perhaps a strict father/mother/society. The desire to break free came from a defining moment in their lives to escape this life. Intuition that their destiny now defines the future comes to them, and it can no longer be ignored.

The introduction, middle, and ending groups of cards are formulaic, and that is by design. It is structured for consistent interpretation and the ability to repeat and add on to the plot points as needed. The transition cards are critical to act as the bridge between the sections of the story.

Introduction Arc Plot Point(s):

Card 3: The mood/theme of the moment at the start of the story for the main character

• 3 of Wands (Minor Arcana)

Looking at just the imagery, the man’s back to me suggests that he is not thinking about the past, but rather the land and future in front of him. He’s passed through a “wands” gateway, and has his own walking stick in his hand. He looks ready to walk into the land. Traditionally, the events have unfolded, and “the ships have sailed”. This shows a “virile force, confidence, and boldness to launch enterprises, perhaps by bringing three or more people or factors together” from a position of authority.

Card 4: The trigger of the event unfolding

• The Hierophant (Major Arcana)

All I see here is religious authority. The finger-wagging “do this and don’t do that”. Established cultural authority as well - the government and education reinforcing the religious doctrine and telling the masses how to think, act, and live one’s life to keep order. The traditional meanings are close to this, as the imagery is literal. It can also indicate finding religion (established doctrine) for personal growth. The hierophant in the tarot means “one who reveals the sacred by bringing the intelligible to light, thus, in yourself this can mean bringing forth one’s genius, or inborn quality and spirit”. Ponder that for a minute. It’s a big idea.

Card 5: The event which occurs that transitions to the middle of the story arc

• Queen of Swords (Minor Arcana)

My initial impressions are of a cold woman, she looks like she means business. Not the kind and soft woman, but one made of stronger resolve. The sword in her hand tells me she know the feeling of pain, and also knows the power that sword can wield. Practical and challenging personality, stern. Traditional meanings indicate this personality, and sometimes point to a widow/divorced woman, spinster type. She is aloof and intelligent. Could be cut off from emotions or not show them easily to others. A demanding mother.

These are three very big ideas - how can we connect them together into a series of events (plot points) for our story of the rebel breaking free from his life? The 3 of Wands is his desire to take that first step into a new life, but he first contend with the established authority - I really like the idea of an oppressive church-state with the government reinforcing these twisted ideals. The population follows it out of fear, and those who rebel and cause trouble pay some kind of consequence. I think our character will do this and gather others who want to be involved to face the wrath of a stern “queen” (perhaps not a literal queen, but a person who takes on these qualities) and challenge the fate society places upon him for his “transgressions”. Perhaps she can be our Judge from the Justice card. See what I did there? Bring in that character background!

Middle Story Arc Plot Point(s):

Card 6: The mood/theme of the plot point event

• The Chariot (Major Arcana)

My impressions are that the chariot indicates a sense of momentum - movement is here, something has started and it is big. This is a procession, and it’s putting on a show. The sphinxes are black and white - total mastery of balance. There is a high level reason for this show of power. Traditionally, this is a card of victory, mastery, and control. The “metaphorical reigns are in your hand”, and taking “an aggressive stance on an issue”. A “mask . . . or sub-personality which hides your vulnerability”. Interesting themes here. I think this story is taking shape with some intriguing layers.

Card 7: The trigger of the plot point event

• 2 of Wands (Minor Arcana)

My impression of the images here (also noting it is the card before our 3 of Wands in the introduction) is that there is much planning occurring - the big idea that everything is there that our character needs if he can just bring it together. Traditionally, my lovely book scan tells me it is a card which says, “having everything . . . . but longing for more”. He holds dominion over resources, the world in his hands. This is the doorway to opportunity, yet there is a sense of hesitation and wanting to see if efforts will be fruitful.

Card 8: The event which occurs that transitions to the next plot point

Ace of Pentacles (Minor Arcana)

• Cards 6-8 can be repeated for as many plot points you may need, then use card 9

• Or, use cards 6-7, and then skip to card 9 if you are ready for the ending

Oh! Success! Something is going to go right, and it will involve some kind of financial or material gains. Lovely. The outlook for success is overwhelmingly great. Traditional meanings are the same, and “ the outlook is so good it might seem foolish not to proceed”. I love this for our character.

Card 9: The event which occurs that transitions to the end of the story arc

• Page of Swords (Minor Arcana)

My first impressions of this card focus on two things - the sword upright in the page’s hands, and looking backward. The page seems to be in a fighter’s stance, with his sword ready. Looking behind and surveying the situation. Traditional meaning is similar, and also indicates the page being “alert, quick-witted, and agile, but if threatened, cutting or spiteful”. Seems on point for the conflict brewing in our story.

Overall interpretation: Look at where the 2 of Wands and Page of Swords are looking (scroll up, I’ll wait…) See it? Yes, they are looking at The Chariot. The page is readying for the conflict ahead and on defense. Plans are set, and resources/people are in place and quickly gaining momentum via our chariot. Our story is getting exciting, yes?

Ending Arc Plot Point(s):

Card 10: The mood/theme of the plot point event

• 2 of Cups (Minor Arcana)

My impressions from the images bring to mind that a mutually beneficial partnership is formed (people facing one another with 2 cups), and the lion head with wings tells me it will involve courageous acts which enables a sense of rising above together. Traditionally, this is close to my impressions, “as a major statement of the power of opposites to attract . . . transcend differences . . . . draw together for some higher purpose”. Well this is just lovely!

Card 11: The trigger of the plot point event

• Knight of Wands (Minor Arcana)

The adventurous Knight! See the pyramids of Giza in the background? This is the ending conflict sparked by the passionate Knight. The pyramids tell me of exotic locale, perhaps dictating travel to a location for this bold character. Traditional meanings are the same, and in keeping with our story, found this: “You might rebel against stodgy or old-fashioned things, and thus revolutionize a system or procedure”. Interesting so far! Let’s see how this conflict plays out.

I am going to pull these two cards together before I tackle the last three cards. Our rebellious character will meet an ally (not necessarily a woman, but it could be!) who will be a great help to the cause to overthrow the oppressive authority. Perhaps this person will have additional resources. Once the time comes for the actual conflict to occur, it will be in a different land/dimension/region. No longer on the defense, our character and his allies are passionate, bold, and fired up for action. They journey to the site of conflict, motivated and ready.

Card 12: Critical event(s) which must occur to finish the story arc

Use more than 1 card for “12” if needed based on your plot points. In this case, I added two cards for clarity.

• 3 of Pentacles (Minor Arcana)

The first thing I see is the church, and then I see the people doing the work on the structure. Plans in the architect’s hand, the artisan working the walls, etc. This is what is looks like to pull together resources and see teammates embrace their jobs. The traditional meaning is the same. I find it interesting that this story involves religious oppression, and these folks are in a church in the card. It is fair to say that both sides of this conflict ready their resources.

• 7 of Cups (Minor Arcana) - extra card pulled

My impressions of the images in this card are all the different elements in the air, but they are not grounded in reality. The person imagining up these realities thinks about possibility - what could be, what they want/do not want, doubts, practicing potential scenarios. Traditional interpretations focus on the person on the card having to shift through the fantasy and illusion to make clear decisions. Interestingly, my all-too-wise book states, “Since seven is the number of tests and trials it could be a kind of psychomachia (the struggle of faith vs vices) or battle for the soul”. Doesn’t this sound like our conflict?

• The World (Major Arcana) - extra card pulled

This is victory after much strife and struggle. The dance of life, embracing all the world has to offer. Traditional interpretations are the same, and I would like to add, “with a glow of achievement in a goal fulfilled, you claim your place at the center of material bounty and receive your rewards. In the flowering of your attainments, the gifts and approbation of the world surround you”. How great is this for an ending?

These three cards together describe a resolved conflict, but it is not clear how to do so at first. Both side build up their resources to battle one another. Illusions are present, and our character must stay grounded to see clearly how to succeed. Once the conflict is won, a rebuilding effort is in order. The oppressors’ resources are now in possession of our character and allies. The world is ready to be rebuilt with a new image.

Putting it all together

My overall impressions are separated by section, so I am going to put them all together in order to see how they flow. Just reading this sounds like a natural plot progression. I did not re-order as I pulled them out of the deck - these cards created this story. I shuffled like I normally do, and they fit together beautifully. Tarot is like that, and the synchronicities are amazing.

This is what I would write in my notebook based on the cards:

This character experienced an intuitive “epiphany”, that moment of clarity and realization of what was previously unknown inside of them, and the new path requires them to trust the dream realm’s messages. But it will take some work, and won’t always be pleasant. Our character grew up in an environment where a strict moral code was enforced. They may have faced judgement from elders due to this rigid code of conduct. The desire to break free came from a defining moment in their lives to escape this life. The revelation of new destiny now defines them, and it can no longer be ignored. It won’t be easy.

His desire is to take that first step into a new life, but he must first contend with established authority - an oppressive church-state with the government reinforcing twisted ideals. The population follows it out of fear, and those who rebel and cause trouble pay some kind of consequence. Our character will gather others of like-mind who wish to be involved to face the wrath of a stern “queen” oppressor and challenge the fate society places upon him for his “transgressions”. The oppressor figure is our Judge from the Justice card.

The page (of swords) is readying for the conflict ahead and on defense. Plans are set. All resources/people are in place and quickly gain momentum via our chariot. The people are rising.

Our character will meet an ally, who will be a great help for the cause to overthrow the oppressive authority. This person will have needed resources. Once the time comes for the actual conflict to occur, it will be in a different land/dimension/region. No longer on the defense, our character and his allies are passionate, bold, and fired up for action. They journey to the site of conflict, motivated and ready.

It is not clear how to resolve this conflict at first. Both sides build up their resources to battle one another. Illusions are present, and our character must stay grounded to see clearly how to succeed. It is a struggle. Once the conflict is won by our character, a rebuilding effort is in order. The oppressors’ resources are now in possession. The world is ready to be rebuilt in a new image.

Don’t be afraid to intuitively move around the cards that give cohesion to the plot of the story. If that Ace of Pentacles card feels better at the end, and not in the middle, do it. It's your story, and these are just tools to help you pull together the structure. If you find a card in the perfect position, and you want to dive deeper into what is behind that great concept/plot/character, pull a few more out on the side to discover more. If you pull extra cards and they stop making sense, call it done. Write your notes.

I am a visual person, and I love making diagrams and mind maps. You can convert these story plots into a visual representation of your choosing (on paper/digital/art scribbles) using only a few keywords from each card.

Reading this story summary reminds me of medieval battles, science fiction, survival horror, and many common movie plots. I feel like a story arc of this nature could be scaled down to micro levels for personal conflicts, or scaled up to full-scale wars with armies. Amazing, isn’t it? These cards fell out of the deck in this exact order, and the story is reflective of common story arcs we see in movies, literature, and plays. The classic good versus evil.

I must admit that I had no idea I would write this much right out of the gate. My mind is alive with ideas for more. I have pivoted back to writing creative fiction, horror to be exact. I’m working on a new huge short story, and rewriting my first story as well. I’ll post these later on this year if I gather enough courage to share them 🫣.

Catch up with part 1!

The archetype of the weaver speaks to my soul. She forms connections, never tethered and never chained. It takes just one thread to spin our reality. Humans, both ancient and modern, are natural weavers. Many goddess sisters I meet and bond with are weavers just like myself. We build, our webs expanding out into concentric circles. We exist in the cosmic liminal realm, forming connections for ourselves, for others, and life’s Great Work.

But then again, for those who consider themselves weavers - I don’t need to tell you any of this. We know deep down what we do and how we do it. And we make mountains move, don’t we?

Recently, while in a call with my goddess sisters, I pulled cards rather spontaneously about the weaver. I picked up a deck I don’t normally use, Witch Sister Tarot, because I knew there was a weaver card. After I found her, I pulled 4 cards and placed them all around like a compass (north, south, east, west) and it was extraordinary. The imagery on the cards I pulled showed me what Ostara has to offer - the witch-hare and her guidance. Soon after, my mind asked the cards what archetype the weaver embodies. Kim Krans’ Archetype deck, which is fabulous, includes a card named “The Thread”.

And so, we are exploring what it means to be the weaver at Ostara, a time when the world blooms. We wake out of our winter slumber to see what is possible. What we want to weave this coming season. This special spread embodies the energy of the weaver, she who pulls on the thread of life to build connections - “The path, the vein, the circuit”.1

What will you weave into your life this spring? What threads will you connect?

The Thread Archetype - The Path, The Vein, The Circuit

We reach for life’s meaning - at crossroads, times of happiness, times of sadness, while doing our life’s Great Work . . . but all it takes is the tug on a single liminal thread. What do I mean by a liminal thread? Yes, it comes from a profound moment. But also from single moments, such as conversations, songs, or viewing images. The circuit is created, and we then internalize the energy of this thread, transforming this moment into a circuit. We respond to this potent energy in our body. It flows though our bloodstream, lifting our mind and spirit.

You then remember - Who am I? What am I here to do? Humanity is complex, there are many many layers to our existence. Sometimes confusion and distractions cause us to loosen our grip on our threads, or hold too tight. Why choose to be tethered when we can hold it with true connection to our hearts? Only then we are truly free. We find our meaning through the web of chaos. The thread calls us home.

The Spinner of Threads (Witch Sister Tarot) - X - The Wheel of Fortune (Fire Element)

Our Spinner of Threads image derives from rural Scotland, where wool and the sheep who produce it are essential to survival for commoners. Wool starts with flock tending, the care. After shearing, fleece is then cleaned, carded, and spun into yarn by countrywomen. The artistry of knitted textiles from this thread are well-known and celebrated.

Much like the Wheel of Fortune, the spindle spins round and round. We are in control of our fate, be it through trials or blessings. What do you have already? What do you want that you don’t have? Fate can feel either cruel or kind. Despite this, our spinner wears a smile on her face. Woven into the threads in her fabrics are hidden treasures waiting to be found. What do we create with our threads? This profound sense of optimism bestows a positive outcome in our circumstances if we act to change it.2

The Witch-Hare’s Blessings

We now arrive to Ostara the Witch-Hare’s wisdom. During the 15th through the 17th centuries, witches were persecuted and hunted. Stories of the witch transforming into a hare added to her lore; she was commonly thought to be a shapeshifter. This idea persists as the hare in the wild woods, guiding one to the sacred rowan tree. This magical tree aids in spells, protection rituals, and purification.

(1) Ace of Trees (Ace of Wands) - The Witch-Hare Last Autumn (Fire Element)

Where were you, personally and within the liminal realm, the past autumn? What did you want in life? What were your goals, projects, and creative outlets? This is not full manifestation, but the initial spark. What needs to be done to create this reality?

The rowan berries were ripe at this time. The tree’s energy flows through the hare. She stores this energy, quiet for now, until it’s time to swiftly leap into action. The ignition of the spark of creative fire to manifest your plans has arrived. But before this leap, quiet is needed to listen to one’s intuition.

(2) The Sun - Last August, Lughnasadh’s Path for Manifestation (Fire Element)

The Sun pairs with the Ace of Trees. The Ace of Trees holds the initial spark, but The Sun shines a light on your spark, showing us the way to make it happen. One’s craft ripens - what is needed to manifest your spark and what will it transform into by spring?

Lughnasadh, still celebrated today each August, highlights the sun god Lugh. The time for harvesting, life’s pleasures, the sun, and love. Traditional themes focus on the life of the harvested fields, bread and corn dollies, drinking and merrymaking, games, and processions. Most importantly, the harvest is stored so that the winter months are plentiful with food. This storing echos the (Ace of Trees) hare’s pause before action wherein the winter is the pause after Lughnasadh until spring arrives.

(3) Three of Trees (Three of Wands) - Spring’s Weaving (Fire Element)

Here we have the mother of the woods, offering protection and nourishment to all creatures who dwell within. Wisdom and memory exist in this realm, and her heart. Here lies a sanctuary of dreams for the girl within the woods where she weaves her spells. The old tree roots offer deep wisdom and grounding. Whereas the Two of Wands offers the possibilities of our our choices, the Three of Wands locks in our commitment to the choice we make. This choice then calls on our own wisdom and memories - with great support from the mother of the woods.

To connect with our future choice, we look to the past. In the context of this reading, refer back to card 1 and 2 - what did you dream, want, and work towards last autumn? Remember your victories, remember your obstacles. Now is the time to recognize the work you have already done - be cognizant of the preparation already in place for this moment, where we are ready to move forward.

(4) The Queen of Trees (Queen of Wands) - The Witch-Hare at Beltane - Future Transformation (Fire Element)

Last autumn brought us the witch-hare in her animal form. As we approach Beltane, she transforms to the queen with fire in her eyes and a rowan berry crown. She is pure magic. Her majestic nature brings bright blessings, and also great strength. The hare energy not only brings this strength, but also fertile energy. Her nature is wild like the flames of Beltane, blessing the fruitful land. Watch as she dances around the pyre, watch as she raises her voice and spread her arms wide to the sky. Her magic is strong, her energy wild.

My Impressions

The prior sections summarized the guidebook entries, and while I would not usually dive so deep into them here they were just so beautiful and relevant to the archetype of the weaver. The golden thread in our liminal realm is so important to find. We each have our own path in life. That first tug on that thread simply starts our journey. It is up to us to follow it down.

The most prominent thing I notice, without considering card interpretations, is the dominant presence of the fire element. Every card crackles with elemental fire, and so appropriate for our awakening world. We are waking up, shaking off the winter pause to remember what we are here to do. Weaving our energetic intentions into our work and setting the world ablaze with our passion, creativity, and manifested desires. We hold those threads - not in bondage, but instead with our hearts. We seek the small details within those threads in which we create our beautiful tapestry of life. In this we find true freedom, on our own terms.

Try This Spread for Yourself!

You don’t need the Witch Sister deck to work with this spread. Journal these prompts on your own, or pull out your own deck using a few adaptations which may help you work with the energy of the weaver.

• Consider if you want to use the entire deck (both major and minor arcana), just majors, or just minors. Your choice.

• Consider if you want to use reversals or not. Reversals bring additional energy that you may or may not want.

• My archetype cards may be substituted with a major arcana card to represent the dominant energy present in the weaver for you. Deal that card out of the deck however feels right.

• The four cards for the Witch-Hare’s Blessings are the cards (major only/minor only/both) of your choice. They correspond to last autumn, this coming spring, and the future summer. Deal them out however you wish.

• Get loose with it. If you get intuitive hits that go deeper than this basic structure, pull a card or two for clarification on the Witch-Hare’s Blessings cards.

• Above all, the cards will speak to you. Flow with it - you may be surprised at what they have to say.

Thank you for reading this post. What do you think?

1. What bubbles up for you when you think about yourself as the weaver?

2. What will you weave this coming spring and summer?

3. Did you try this spread? If you did, awesome! Post a short summary of your reading and then DM me - snag a free 15 minute zoom reading with me 🔮

The following post is a very special collaboration between and me. We are especially proud of this piece. Please enjoy. Give Alysia some love and subscribe to her Substack if you’d like to read more.

Imbolc is upon us, a time of fire in our bellies, of our beautiful Goddess Brigid (or, Saint Brigid) deep in her winter sleep, slowly waking to bring the first signs of spring to the land. We now stand at the threshold of spring and its fertile land, sun, and emergence from the dark of winter’s call for quiet inward reflection.

At this very moment, on the cross-quarter day between winter solstice and spring equinox, we are yearning for that first glimmer of light to peek from behind the gloomy, cold clouds. Our wheel of the year truly begins now, prompting our dreams for a springtime emergence and what we’d like to project into the world. We are now in Aquarius energy, and amplifying our celebration comes a full Snow Moon in Leo. Bringing this together, we have the Wheel of Fortune’s manifesting energy. This coming spring truly brings an opportunity to ignite our fire in the world.

We continuously cycle like the Ouroboros, originating from Greek oura “tail,” and boros, “eating”. The serpent eating its own tail symbolizes the unending, renewing cycle of nature. We learn from the Ouroboros that we are continuously renewed through cycles of life, death, and rebirth.

This unending cycle does not transmute exclusively to physical states of being. We travel through our lives experiencing a multitude of dimensional realities, and that, too, cycles. Our lived experiences remind us what it means to be human and how we walk through this world in true connection with nature and humankind.

Imbolc is the container of our great cosmic egg, where we are truly reborn over and over again. The cosmic egg becomes the fertile seed set to sprout in the coming spring. The Empress pulls deep into the earth to bring forth our own great cosmic egg into the world. What are we birthing through her?

So, what of this magical moment at the cross-quarter, the first spark of Imbolc? This, my friends, is the focus of today’s very special collaboration to explore this beautiful moment of transition - we become more, and our transmuted lived experience manifests the unknown through the void.

Before we begin, ask yourself this question:

If I could give back what no longer serves in my life to the void, how might it transmute back to me? What elemental alchemy could I experience as a result of this shedding?

What follows is a special tarot and alchemical exploration of chaos and the void, focusing on manifestations that each element could potentially manifest in our lived experiences.

This spread laid out organically, as it should. I would like to bring your attention to two connections: West/East feature the Wheel of Fortune and The Fool, both looking towards Chaos/Void, and the North/South feature The Magician and Death, who both feature tree roots.

This topic is endlessly fascinating. The metaphysical ideas presented here are our own, based on the cards pulled and personal perspectives.

The tarot deck we used is: Tarot of the Abyss by Ann Tourian

The alchemy deck we used is: The Wild Unknown Deck & Guidebook by Kim Krans

Erica:

It’s terrifying when we experience the chaos of the unknown void - the black, impermeable depths with no end. What lies beneath is not shadow or light, positive or negative, nor the space where we have any sense of control. It’s the nothingness of it all that births the great cosmic egg. The Empress pulls the egg into being as a powerful, energetic expression from the void.

This is Source - the origin of these energetic expressions in both dimensional and liminal work, where manifestation of all things begins.

We do not negotiate or make transactional requests in the void, for it is neutral in its primal aether. What the void returns to us does not reflect what we are specifically praying for, but instead a transmuted energy. Something becomes nothing. Nothing then transmutes new energy back to us.

Behind this conceptual vision of the depths lies the function of the void as a place of healing and shedding… what no longer serves. How do we embrace the unpredictable, chaotic nature of the void so that we may give these things back?

Alysia:

I connect with the void as a black womb of nothing that births light into form. That form can be a universe, a world, a soul, a dream. Everything comes from the void, and returns to it in the end.

The Divine Feminine and Divine Masculine also live as the consciousnesses of the void. These consciousnesses can never truly be divided because they always exist everywhere and within everything. They are the void.

Since I rediscovered the Divine Feminine in my life, I have been very drawn to this energy within myself and within all things. When I understood the Divine Feminine was one aspect of the void, or the Creatrix of all life, I remember feeling a deep exhale of peace. It helped me begin the journey of embodiment, living fully in my body and emotions rather than being stuck in my mind. I realized that self-forgiveness was the true north to everything, and forgiveness happens within the depths of your own heart, within the void.

Erica:

What a beautiful pairing! When we consider the function of the void’s transmutation, Death arrives as the Grim Reaper, guiding us to the empty depths. Death is the agent of transmutation. The dissolution of what we no longer need is escorted to the void. But where do we go after this happens? Growth and renewal are inevitably on the horizon, but we must shed our old layers to make way for them. Our alchemy card, Spendor Solis/Sun’s Spender, represents the dawn of a new day. If you look closely at the traditional RWS Death card, the lower right side features the pillars (as seen in other cards in the major arcana) with the rising sun behind it. And so Sun’s Splendor shows us there’s hope for another day, another reality, another possibility. One day at a time and one sun’s ray at a time, forgoing all other paths while moving towards generosity and kindness.

Alysia:

And so we come to the first pairing of our spread in the south—the Sun’s Splendor and Death cards. Death is greatly misunderstood in our world. It’s not something scary to be feared. It’s something sacred to be honored, because we are all connected and our energy never dies, but rather shifts into a new form or returns to the void. Through shifting our lens of death, we “become more radiant, light, and expect nothing in return.” (Sun’s Splendor, The Wild Unknown Alchemy Deck)

We are all made in the same likeness as the Source, or Sophia, with this same duality and oneness within ourselves. Just as Sophia (the void) can birth worlds into being, so can we. From darkness to light, from nothing to something. This forever changed my idea of manifestation as I had been taught.

It’s so much more powerful than thinking a thought and hoping it works. True manifestation is the balance of the light and the dark within. Shadow work is just as essential as light work. If we only ever lived in the light, we would be ignoring half of the Self. Within the darkness is the fertile void, it’s where the seed grows and blooms into a flower.

Erica:

Calcinatio/Calcificaton pairs with Wheel of Fortune function in the void as the catalyst at Imbolc, the exact moment of transmutation and Brigid’s flame at the cross-quarter. Calcification gives the first glimmer of the growing flame when we shed repression, and it needs purification to be brought into the light and out of the void. How does it transmute? The healing momentum of our repressed layers burns with heat when given enough space, time, and awareness. It’s not a comfortable process to burn everything to ashes - it hurts. But when we commit to this change, we rise again. The Wheel of Fortune then arrives to bring new opportunities and experiences. Out of the rising flame of Calcification comes the wheel, its spinning motion driving our momentum to change. We truly do not know what will happen - will we spin out from up to down, or down to up? The void, never offering transactional transmutation, offers instead what we need via the forward momentum of the Wheel of Fortune.

Alysia:

This comes to the west pairing of the Calcification and the Wheel of Fortune cards in our spread. What goes up must come down. Every ending is also a beginning. Everything is cyclical. Shadow work requires “a commitment and a willingness to sit through discomfort as old patterns fall into the ashes.” (Calcification, The Wild Unknown Alchemy Deck)

If we start in the light, we’re missing the key to creation in our own lives. The key is in the void, in the darkness, in the womb, where all life begins. Shadow work allows for healing, releasing layers and masks, all while being held in the fertile darkness.

Erica:

The Magician is the conduit of manifesting, drawing from both the earth and air, holding energetic balance. He enacts his magical works through a solitary path of practiced training, mastery, and discipline. He projects his will through raising his wand to the sky and his arm grounded to the earth (seen in the traditional RS deck). Doing this work requires disciplined inward reflection to maintain one’s balance of power. This is the true source of The Magician’s power. Argentum/Silver offers the needed self-reflection for The Magician. Mastery of one’s own power needs a “check and balance”, and Silver’s reflective properties offer support. Silver asks that we polish the surface, asking us to participate in reflection. Most importantly, Silver opens the portal to the void. If work needs to be done, the void reflects back to us what work needs to be done. We consciously choose to engage with it to view our inner self - both for what we need and what to release.

Alysia:

In the pairing of Silver and The Magician cards in the north of our spread, we are called toward accepting that we carry all we need within us, through the void within, to create anything we desire. Silver is our mirror, where we can accept our own reflection over again, choose growth, and use this “daily devotion to find our truest gold.” (Silver, The Wild Unknown Alchemy Deck)

Because we are a mirror of Sophia, the void exists without and within us. When you meditate, you can access the void within and allow healing to happen from that inner place. You become still, opening access to the shadow that is ready to come forward, be acknowledged, and healed.

This is the real work. Looking into the dark places and bringing them into the light, or dissolving them into the sacred dark, where they integrate into wholeness. This is the work that the void supports us in. Because in the void, there is no judgment or guilt, there is only observation.

Shadow work isn’t quick or easy, but it is necessary. I also believe that it’s never truly done. It’s the ongoing inner work. There’s always more to heal, and that’s okay. We don’t have to be fully healed from every shadow to live a really good life filled with joy, love, and freedom.

Erica:

The Fool arrives with the transmuted gift of the void, leaving behind what no longer serves and stepping off the cliff in perfect love and trust. Traditionally, The Fool represents a new journey, undertaking, and path that lies ahead to an unknown destination. It is essential to recognize that The Fool also acts as a complete container for the major arcana, as it is given “0”. “0” also resembles our great cosmic egg bestowed upon us by the void. What emerges when it opens? Gold gives us our divine gift from the cosmic egg. It’s mystical alchemy offers soft, bright nectar opening our hearts. We receive blessed, cherished gifts.

Alysia:

This brings us to the final pairing in our spread, Gold and The Fool cards in the east. These speak of new beginnings, but also of not stepping ahead blindly without knowing your truth first, because you may just fall over the edge of the cliff instead. Either is okay. We learn through all of it, and we have probably all experienced that fall more than once. This happens when the Gold we seek is external, rather than “the mystical essence within each of us.” (Gold, The Wild Unknown Alchemy Deck)

It’s about owning who you really are… the shadow and light. Where, at the center of it all, the chaos is consumed by the void, only to be reborn again in a different form.

Thank you for reading from the bottom of our hearts. We prepared this post with perfect love and trust that it would reach exactly who it was meant to reach. Please share this post into the aether.

Let us know your thoughts on the Void and Imbolc. We love to chat with our subscribers.

Note: I have been under the weather and posting this a few days after the full moon, my apologies. The cards in the spread were pulled during the Super Moon.

Now that we’ve explored our royal court’s queens, we move onto the kings. The King of Cups corresponds to water, and our discussion today focuses on how he accesses his deep emotional realms to support his sovereignty. All kings in the tarot royal court also correspond to Fire, which adds an interesting twist for the King of Cups. Fire appears in our spread as fuel for his actions in a really positive way, along with Air and Earth. Special note: depending on the system, kings also associate with the element of air.

The super Full Moon in Cancer opens the portal to our deepest emotions. What do we let go? How do we forgive? How do we find our peace when we let go of what no longer serves? In these complex emotional waters, how do we find our inner safety net when we experience the moods that inevitably accompany this? Also impacting our Wolf Moon is Capricorn (Earth), offering a stable, grounded focus. Capricorn offers this gift: we may do our inner work by leaning into our work-life balance of personal needs versus professional ambitions. This sounds like our King of Cups.

References:

• “Holistic Tarot” by Benebell Wen

• “Secrets of the Waite-Smith Tarot: The True Story of the World’s Most Popular Tarot” by Marcus Katz and Tali Goodwin

• “The Ultimate Guide to the Rider Waite Tarot” by Johannes Fiebig and Evelin Burger

Preparation: Use a full deck for this spread. Before you shuffle, pull out the King of Cups for the spread, and then put the rest of the kings to the side since we will not be using them.

I pulled this spread organically, and like always it hits just right.

Who is the King of Cups?

• Symbology: His sovereignty reflects in his ability to float on his throne with openness and clarity. His spirit grants him buoyancy through concentrating his emotions, i.e. feelings and longing. The ship represents his ability to flow with changes. The fish emerging show us our king can see what is underwater to become visible - this grants sovereignty and dignity because he understands inner processes. The cups show alertness and concentration to take accountability for tasks with integrity and honesty. The scepter grants ease when making decisions.

• Flow of Pictorial Placements: The king sits on his throne, which floats on an ocean of water, thus the water element. We have a red ship in the background (lower right) navigating the chaotic water.

• Colors: Red, yellow, blue. Primary aims in life and motives are true. Gray represents neutrality indicating a lack of prejudice.

• Elements: Cups correspond to Water, and all Kings correspond to Fire, so we have “Water of Fire” for the King of Cups.

• Elemental Dignities: Water and Fire weaken. These elements may work in opposition to one another.

• Astrological: Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces.

What does the King of Cups have to say about each card position to invoke the nature of his sovereignty?

• Card 1, lower left: The King’s Domain of Cups

  • Two of Swords (Air): The split decision, and a hard one to make. Despite this, the figure in the card holds the swords with a powerful stance and position. In the face of heavy burden, one’s will remains strong when faced with difficult options. Note the waters in the background representing the heart’s state but the moon gives hope, both manifesting the emotional reaction to the decision at hand. Unregulated emotions disrupt his success, a warning to remain calm. From this storm yields personal growth in all matters the swords represent: ambition, ideology, and communication. In the end, these trials bode well for future success. Logic and reason prevail, as denoted by the blindfold and crossed arms.

    • King of Cups x Two of Swords: Wow, what a pairing! Our King of Cups, deep in his watery realms behind the figure in the card, navigates difficult decisions amidst potentially turbulent times. And when we ponder this, the sovereignty of a king rests on the ability to make wise decisions under these conditions. The King of Cups recognizes the weight of responsibility and chooses clear logic and reason despite his emotional realm. The secret to his success is to apply this reasoning while acknowledging, not stifling, his emotions regarding the matters at hand. He keeps them in the right place within himself.

  • Elemental Dignities: Air and Water neutral, Air and Fire strengthen. A neutral dignity is a slightly strengthened relationship, so overall the Two of Swords holds an strong correlation to the King of Cups’ water and fire elements. He is well supported.

  • Astrological: Gemini, Libra, Aquarius.

• Card 2, bottom: How to move into your inner King of Cups

  • Seven of Pentacles (Earth): Hard work yields results - the fruits of one’s labor in full display in the vegetation. This card shows fiscal responsibility, and so the person in the card is not yet reaping his rewards, instead choosing to bask what’s been harvested. The Seven of Pentacles reflects devotion and dedication towards the cultivation of work. Following this line of thought, one should not overwork either. Denying or hesitating the engagement of one’s emotional realms of enjoyment only fosters loneliness. The satisfaction of working hard should not drown out the enjoyment of life itself.

    • King of Cups x Seven of Pentacles: Kingship is hard, and it can be lonely at the top. However, the work our King of Cups puts into his realm multiplies seven-fold to benefit all. When executed successfully, he must remember to relax and enjoy what he’s created. Too much work overtaxes us. Compounding this issue, emotional realms do not bode well while trapped in this cycle.

  • Elemental Dignities: Earth and Water strengthen, Earth and Fire neutral. A neutral dignity is a slightly strengthened relationship, so overall the Seven of Pentacles holds a strong correlation to the King of Cups’ water and fire elements. He is well supported.

  • Astrological: Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn.

• Card 3, lower right: What the shadow says

  • Seven of Swords (Air): This card traditionally correlates to thievery and deception. It’s very interesting to me that this card relates tho the King of Cups’ shadow. There’s more to this card than meets the eye, beyond the common interpretation. The person on the card runs away from a camp holding five swords by the blades, leaving two behind. Impulsivity is the key, a sense of fleeing away from one’s actions they’re not proud of. Perhaps an outcast, deviating from the norms of society.

    • King of Cups x Seven of Swords: I think the shadow of The King of Cups hints at imposter syndrome. He doesn’t see himself as fitting the role of the king, perhaps due to his emotional nature. He leaves two swords behind, his true self, to sneak away with uncomfortable sword blades in his hand. At least, that’s what his doubting mind says. Remember - the swords reside in the mind in direct opposition to the heart. It ultimately comes down to the adage of having the devil (crippling self-doubt) on one shoulder, and an angel (emotional confidence) on the other.

  • Elemental Dignities: Air and Water neutral, Air and Fire strengthen. A neutral dignity is a slightly strengthened relationship, so overall the Seven of Swords holds a strong correlation to the King of Cups’ water and fire elements. He experiences his shadow side - and when it comes in, it’s voice (air) can be deafening and his (water)y realms may become lost beneath self-doubt.

  • Astrological: Gemini, Libra, Aquarius.

• Card 4, upper left: What the cup grants the King of Cups

  • Three of Pentacles (Earth): The artisan standing on the bench receives validation from his peers for the work he’s completed. Approval and recognition come his way, and along with it nobility, aristocracy and glory. All the work put into one’s craft pays off in the end.

    • King of Cups x Three of Pentacles: Well doesn’t this fit perfectly for a king? To be upheld as ruler in his court, he must show his supporters that he knows what he’s doing and be successful. Corrupt, inept sovereignty never goes over well. Ahem….Game of Thrones, anyone? Just sayin’.

  • Elemental Dignities: Earth and Water strengthen, Earth and Fire neutral. A neutral dignity is a slightly strengthened relationship, so overall the Three of Pentacles holds an strong correlation to the King of Cups’ water and fire elements. I also find it interesting that this aspect also works to keep that shadowy imposter syndrome in check (card 3).

  • Astrological: Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn.

• Card 5, upper right: What the scepter grants the King of Cups

  • Eight of Wands (Fire): Swift movement, direct action, and successful conclusions towards one’s goals. There’s no doubt that clarity and resolute action brings these wands forward. This card holds the active fire element. When considering this card in relation to royal court cards, they could be receiving news from lower court cards and acting accordingly.

    • King of Cups x Eight of Wands: Scepters evolved over time from long staffs (wands) to shorter, ornate ceremonial pieces. It grants divine authority to rule, used by many ancient cultures as a symbol of power and independence of the realm. It’s no surprise that the Eight of Wands makes its appearance, multiplying the sovereign reach. Our king’s scepter becomes eight wands flying toward their targets with rapid movement.

  • Elemental Dignities: Fire and Water weaken, Fire and Fire strengthen. Here we see the King of Cups’ emotions drown in the action of fire. This fire is a positive force in his sovereignty. When considering his shadow elements (card 3) he chooses direct, confident action (fire) over emotional brooding (water). The Eight of Pentacles serves his foundational kingly fire element well.

  • Astrological: Aries, Leo, Sagittarius.

I really enjoyed this exploration of the King of Cups. The court cards are a challenge for many tarot readers, new and seasoned alike. I’m excited to create each exploration of the royal court’s sovereignty this coming year - I finished our queens late 2025. I will now move through the kings, knights, and pages each month through December 2026.

Thank you for reading through to the end! As always, I encourage my subscribers to attempt this spread to explore their own inner King of Cups.

I love to chat in the comments:

• Anyone who attempts this spread and comments with a brief summary can claim a freebie 30 minute zoom reading with me.

• What does your inner King of Cups look like? What does he radiate into the world?

• What does the King of Cups tell you about yourself and how you express your emotions?

2026 is upon us! This is usually the time of year we think about new year’s resolutions. What have we learned from last year? What can we do this coming year that will be better, new, and amazing?

Using a Planner to Organize My Tarot Work

I use a 12-month tarot archetype spread to give me a preview of what kind of energies may manifest. After I look at the spread and write down some thoughts on each card in my notes, I transfer these cards and thoughts to my planner pages ahead of time. I really love the Bullet Journal method. I truly hate long-form traditional journaling - pouring every detail of my brain chaos in a “dear diary” way is not what I ever want to do. Even when I take notes for my tarot spreads, you’ll see short sentences and key words.

Over the years, I’ve used some version of this spread, and this year is no different. The first thing I do is identify what card is designated the card of 2026 - Wheel of Fortune (10) and The Magician (1, because 1+0=1). A simple google search will help, or add the individual numbers in the year 2026: 2+0+2+6=10.

Preparing The Tarot Deck

Pull out only major arcana cards, and then put the rest of the deck aside.

• The only pile you will work out of from this point is the small stack of major arcana.

• We will also NOT use any reversals. If any are drawn upside-down, flip them right-side up.

Create the 2026 Spread

1. Pull outWheel of Fortune to represent the energy for 2026. Put this aside.

2. Shuffle this small stack of cards the best you can. Make sure they’re thoroughly mixed. Then, cut the stack into 3 smaller stacks and recombine these stacks as you see fit, as long as the top card before the cut is not on the top again after the cut.

3. Draw the top 12 cards, each representing a month of the year, January through December. Depending on how much table space you have, you can do this in a clockwise circle or rows. As you pull them, note the order in which they are pulled - the first card will represent January, and the last December.

4. Write a single column on paper, one line for each, January through December. You should have 12 lines. Put a few blank lines in between each month line for personal notes.

5. Next, match each of the 12 drawn monthly tarot cards and write them next to the corresponding month’s lines on your paper. This is your “key”. Underneath these 12 correspondences, near the bottom of your page, write down “Wheel of Fortune” with more space for notes.

6. Write your own thoughts on these cards down on your paper and keep it safe.

Special Note:

• These are not predictions for specific events, rather the archetypal energy you may experience during that time.

• Use general impressions, and pay attention to the energy in the previous and next month for each card. It tells a story of what led to the energy of the month, and how it may resolve in the next month.

• If you feel you drew a “bad” card, please don’t think that way. Just because you draw “death”, for example, it doesn’t mean actual death! This cards usually represents change and transition in your life, and not all change is bad! Look at what card precedes it, and what follows it for further guidance.

Here’s the same list of major arcana cards, with a few very general archetypes of the energy this card holds:

• 0 – Fool – 0 - representing new beginnings and potential

• 1 Magician – I - manifestation and personal power

• 2 High Priestess – II – inner wisdom and divine feminine energy

• 3 Empress – III- nurturing and creativity

• 4 Emperor – IV - structure and authority

• 5 Hierophant – V - tradition and established beliefs

• 6 Lovers – VI - choice and duality, sometimes love

• 7 Chariot – VII - willpower and control

• 8 Strength – VIII – inner power and overcoming obstacles

• 9 Hermit – IX - inner wisdom and introspection

• 10 Wheel of Fortune – X - change, luck, and destiny

• 11 Justice – XI - balance, fairness, truth, and accountability

• 12 The Hanged Man – XII - sacrifice and surrender, inner focus

• 13 Death – XIII - transformation and endings

• 14 Temperance – XIV - spiritual harmony and balance

• 15 Devil – XV - temptation and desires, shadow work

• 16 The Tower – XVI - sudden change and disruption

• 17 The Star – XVII - hope and renewal

• 18 The Moon – XVIII - illusion and subconscious

• 19 The Sun – XIX - joy and happiness

• 20 Judgement – XX - awakening and rebirth

• 21 The World – XXI - completion and achievement

Now What?

If you have a planner or calendar, transfer these monthly archetypal energies and keywords to each monthly page. If you have a notes page in your planner, I would recommend copying your spread for future reference.

Use your intuition when interpreting the card energies, but don’t go so far off the traditional meaning that it no longer represents the spirit of the card. Use a good reference book, deck guide, or google reliable tarot websites for further guidance.

For the love of all that is sacred - PLEASE stay off of TikTok or YouTube for your definitions of the cards. Go right to the source, not a random person’s wild interpretation for collective readings.

Going Further into the Year

At the start of each month, you can fish out the card you pulled for this 12-month spread. Why not pull out a few cards on this energy to glean more details? Pull 1, 3, 6 cards . . . do whatever feels right. Use a full deck, just majors, just minors, reversals/no reversals. You do you.

A standard 3-card spread is nice because you can assign simple things to each position, such as:

1. Energy passing

2. Current influence or energy

3. Gifts or lessons to be learned

Periodically throughout the year, look back and see how these archetypes manifested in your life. You may be amazed at what emerges!

I hope this was helpful and assists your planning out the year. I do this every year and it helps me mentally prepare.

I wish all of you a great 2026! Let me know how the spread works for you in the comments. I’d love to hear what you learned.

I am offering short zoom readings for this forecast for $15. Readings are 15 minutes. I am PST in California, and have evenings and weekend availability. Please DM if you are interested.

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We are quickly approaching the winter months, and the Cold Moon in Gemini has begun. For many of us, this begins the period of self-reflection, release after mercury retrograde, and significant shifts in our lives. Communication is key, and reflection with oneself and others offers guidance on what’s to come. The Super Moon energy amplifies everything, so it may feel like a series of grand revelations.

This energy propels us into 2026’s card of the year - The Wheel of Fortune (2+0+2+6=10). Gemini’s energy of communication, self-reflection and release will deliver us to The Wheel of Fortune’s blessings for luck and new opportunities. Not every opportunity is lucky, but despite this we see new elements come into our lives. The spin of the wheel feels like the fates are dictating the next great thing, our turning point. The Magician (1+0=1) grants us the ability to manifest these opportunities as the wheel spins, inspiring an active manifestation through skills and energetic effort.

We are exploring the sovereign nature of the Queen of Swords, the last queen in this series. The astrological energy we are currently experiencing weaves its way into her sovereignty.

• Our Queen’s minor arcana element is air. However, queens also correspond to the element of water, therefore she is recognized as “air of water”. Notice the river in the bottom left corner? It’s small compared to the large curtain of cloud behind it, but cannot be dismissed.

• A hypnosis coach and astrologer in town, Evelyn Zuel, sent a Gemini full moon email this week introducing the idea that even our agile-minded Gemini Queen’s ideas (air) ultimately come from her imagination, manifested by a feeling (water) beneath them. This is what she says:

  Let’s say you are ready for a secure, loving, and mutually receptive relationship and that’s what you want to bring into your life. Rather than focusing on what you don’t currently have, you imagine with as much detail what it would feel like to already be in that ideal relationship. This is in a way, training the nervous system to learn how to identify that feeling by teaching it what it feels like in the present. Does this sound a little Pisces delulu and brain washy? Kind of, but if ALL begins in the mind and our personal worlds are constructed by how we perceive our own reality, then the key to manifesting the life you want starts with how you choose to think about the current reality that you are in.

• The Queen of Swords possesses an intellectual, agile mind capable of working through just about any problem. She breaks it down into logical steps, solving issues via delegation and strategy. She’s cool and calculated, using her sword to slice through the bullshit to get to the core of the issue with blunt and honest communication. In other words, she is disciplined, discriminating and rigorous. She’s the CEO, the lawyer, the researcher, the scientist, the doctor, and the programmer. She get’s things done.

• The Queen of Swords’ shadow can be devastating when she gets wrapped up in the her ideal conditions which are not there. OH, THE ANXIETY (humanity)! A full unravelling occurs when faced with redundancy and unrealistic expectations. The underlying theme is intolerance - and when it happens, it happens big. Sharp words, my friends, with internal and external meltdowns.

Here’s the spread I pulled to explore the nature of the Queen of Swords.

I pulled the Queen of Swords out of the deck first, then removed the 3 remaining queens. I shuffled as normal. Please do it the same way if you attempt this spread. I chose not to use reversals, as I want the full energy of each card.

Throne (bottom-right): Queen’s Sovereign Domain of Air

• The Sun (Fire/Active): Ah, The Sun. I really love this for our Queen. She is one to sit in her mind’s agility to traverse her world, but when does she get a chance to find the joy and happiness within her natural rhythms? The Sun reminds her that to balance her mind’s dominance one must remember to light the fire within to see the good in the world around her. This will safeguard her from her shadow chaos.

• Looking at The Sun card, it is clearly a fire element - the sun is our hot ball of light in the sky, illuminating everything on our planet. But what lies under the rays of the sun? Our airy atmosphere, the wind, the clouds. Our Queen can take her sovereignty from the core idea that above all of her mental agility lies fire, energy, and inspiration.

Throne (bottom-left): How the Queen Moves Into Sovereignty

• Judgement (Fire & Air/Active): Judgement is considered both air and fire (depending on the interpretation), and isn’t this perfect for our Queen considering her relationship to The Sun? Judgement is the card of intellect and conscious realization - and the synthesis which fuses mental clarity to both spirit and ideas. Self reflection on past experiences achieves understanding, bringing integration.

• Our Queen must master this ability to move through the currents of her life. Without integration of spirit and ideas, imbalance is sure to cause problems - too much light or dark can send her down a bipolar path of mental instability.

Throne (back): What the Queen’s Shadow Says

• Emperor (Fire/Active): You know, when I have an Emperor month he tends to kick my ass five times over - and this is what he does to our Queen. Rigid order and discipline are certainly a natural trait, but he sets it into overdrive. Too much discipline, too much intolerance for redundancy, and an unstable Queen.

Sword Handle: Focused Air

• Six of Pentacles (Earth/Passive): I love this card for our Queen. She is at her best when the give and take of reciprocity flows through her life. Embracing her generous spirit offers the grounded fulfillment and positivity she needs to remain focused.

Sword Guard: The Alchemy Between the Handle and Blade

• Three of Wands (Fire/Active): The Three of Wands is a wonderful card in this position, the guard of the sword. Our Queen surveys her domain, having set all the plans in motion. The source of this action begins with the handle, the generosity of the Six of Pentacles, to cross this bridge to the blade’s sharp focus. Also, the Three of Wands resembles the horizontal guard of the sword.

Sword Blade: Focused Air

• Ace of Pentacles (Earth/Passive): From the focused reciprocity of the Six of Pentacles comes the Ace of Pentacles’ blessing to use this philosophy in everything our Queen does. Her agile mind directs her actions, and her spirit of generosity (the integration from Judgement) propels her towards successful sovereignty.

Observations

• We have three major arcana fire cards surrounding the Queen - that’s some powerful energy!

• The sword’s focused air shows passive pentacle energy, bridged by active wands.

• Elemental Count: 2 Air, 1 Water, 2 Earth, 4 Fire

• Elemental dignities: We have two themes in this spread.

  • Air-Fire pairs indicate a strengthened (dignified) interaction. This is supportive for our Queen.

  • The sword is interesting - The pentacles surrounding the wand guard are dominant (dignified) to one another. More support for our queen. The wands guard is neutral to the both surrounding pentacles, and being in the middle seems to play the role of the connector.

Side note: I am very much like the Queen of Swords: Pisces sun, Aquarius moon, and Gemini ascendent. The double air drowns out the Pisces like nobody’s business. Does this sound like our queen with the touch of water (Pisces) and dominant air (Gemini/Aquarius) combo? Hell yes.

I am literally the least dreamy Pisces you’ll ever meet because my head won’t shut up. I do have the highly intuitive side which steps in when needed (ahem, tarot, ritual, etc.), but it’s a rough combo. 🤨

Give me the goddamn crown and coronate me already. 👑

Thank you for reading through to the end! As always, I encourage my subscribers to attempt this spread to explore their own inner Queen of Swords.

I love to chat in the comments:

• Anyone who attempts this spread and comments with a brief summary can claim a freebie 30 minute zoom reading with me.

• What does your inner Queen of Swords look like?

• How you express your inner air/sword?

Catch up on this series!

The November full moon in Taurus is the perfect timing to talk about the Queen of Pentacles. Taurus is a fixed earth sign, and this sign’s stability expresses directly in our queen. The energy of this full moon focuses on recognizing the areas of one’s life where there’s stagnancy, and also acknowledging reciprocity. Limiting beliefs are challenged to expand our comfort zone. Incidentally, our queen corresponds to Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn.

Let’s explore the Queen of Pentacles in all her sovereignty. She offers a sense of stability as the resourceful provider, connected to the bounty of her earth element.

Deck Preparation

This spread laid out organically. I pulled the Queen of Pentacles out of the deck first, then removed the 3 remaining queens. I shuffled as normal. Please do it the same way if you attempt this spread. I chose not to use reversals, as I want the full energy of each card.

Initial observations on color, card placements, symbols, and elemental representation:

• Symbology:

  • We see all natural worldly elements in four cards, but there are man-made elements in only two cards - the city behind the walls and the chariot itself in The Chariot, and the ships in the turbulent sea in Two of Pentacles. And yet, the natural world is still present.

  • We have identical star elements in both the sky of The Star and the top of chariot’s fabric in The Chariot, symbolizing the connection to the infinite cosmos. Taken together, it shows an unbreakable flow between our natural and man-made world.

• Elements: Appropriately, I don’t see wands/fire in our spread. Our queen is not one to act on passionate notions, she uses grounded ways to navigate the material world. Air is dominant here, as she has an agile mind to make good decisions.

  • The Fool - Air

  • The Chariot - Water

  • Two of Pentacles - Earth

  • Two of Swords - Air

  • The Star - Air

• Flow of Pictorial Placements:

  • The first observation I see is the presence of water in every card except The Fool. Water is guided around the throne; starting at the turbulent sea in Two of Pentacles, the very same river flowing behind The Chariot and Queen of Pentacles, and the abundance of water in both the Two of Pentacles and The Star. In all, the only card truly a water element is The Chariot.

  • The repetition of the two’s via the pentacles and the swords show an interesting dynamic. It appears the the Two of Pentacles lies in the lower corner of the throne, seeming to offer earthly balance to each card surrounding it. The Two of Swords in the opposite corner of the spread offers a different duality in the form of decisions in one’s mind. A double duality at play, with the higher pentacle pointed directly across to its swords counterpart as it passes over the Queen. Very interesting.

• Colors:

  • So much blue and yellow! It’s split evenly between all six cards when we consider the colors of the sky. I really love that our top left cards are the bluest of all joining together in an great alchemical dance.

Top Row:

• Queen of Pentacles: What sovereignty looks like, and how it speaks to the Earth element in her throne.

  • Our Queen of Pentacles holds court over earthly matters. Security, financial stability, and grounded authority rule this queen’s domain. She protects the standard of living by focusing on physical needs and resources with common sense. Her level of organization (sometimes to her detriment) using her memory and systematic ways promotes the role of the stable provider. She delights in luxurious earthly possessions, caring for the body, and sensuality. What can the material world provide for a comfortable life and how can she manage its resources? This talent is what our queen does best.

• The Chariot (Right/Back of Throne): What the shadow says.

  • Interesting placement for The Chariot. We have everything prepped and ready for the journey, and yet we’re not quite out of the gate. What do you want to achieve in this path? It is overly complicated, or in poor judgement? As a water element, it’s more about desires than grounding or clear thinking. This looks like over-organizing while not taking all possibilities into account. Ready to jump out of the gate from excitement but the plan is not aligned with the objectives. Our queen, in her shadow element, can focus her energy without seeing the vision, getting caught in the minutia instead.

Bottom Row:

• The Fool (Throne, Bottom Left): The Queen of Pentacles domain of Earth.

  • I really love The Fool in this position. Yes, this is an air element. But! Look at the surrounding natural world of the person heading towards the edge of the cliff. The fall is very much air - they have an idea of what/where they want to go but the future is unknown and risk-laden. I contend that although the fall is potentially dangerous and risky, the surrounding natural world is in charge of what happens.

  • Nothing is accomplished without forward momentum, and this brings unknown elements (i.e. the earth around the fool) to consider. The Queen of Pentacles knows that inherent risk is present in everything we do, and calculated risk focusing on conservative decisions is her best expression.

• Two of Pentacles (throne, Bottom Right): How to move into your inner Queen of Pentacles.

  • This is the card I mentioned in my initial observations crossing the queen towards the Two of Swords. The focus here is moving into the inner queen and the Two of Pentacles offers this solution. Life balance is critical for our queen. The turbulent waters behind the person juggling the pentacles shows us that life itself is unpredictable. The storm is around the corner and we do our best to stay balanced and grounded.

  • Crossing this with the Two of Swords offers an interesting dynamic with our queen between. The Two of Pentacles offers support for our queen to make grounded and wise decisions with the Two of Swords.

Pentacles Alchemical Earth Focus, Left Top Row:

• Two of Swords (Top Left): How the Queen of Pentacles Focuses the Earth Element.

  • This is really more a continuation of the prior commentary. Our queen needs to use her skills to carry the burden of decisions. Even though she is quite capable of organizing and planning to the smallest detail, her shadow may get in the way when the vision is vague. Also note the high level of water in the background, which indicates that making tough decisions may feel like one is drowning.

  • The swords in this position reminds the queen that in addition to her skillset, she must embody clear thinking when making decisions.

• The Star x Two of Swords (Top Left): The Underlying Alchemical Energy of the Two of Swords.

  • The Star alchemizes our queen and the Two of Swords energy of her focused earth. How beautiful and welcome is this card! I love that the stars above, which show the infinite cosmos and connection, form a connection via the girl, who is then pouring the water both into the earth and back into the water source. Everything is a cycle.

  • The Star is here to remind our queen that there is a cycle to everything, and getting caught up in one’s mind is fruitless, when the true focus should also encompass the greater world and the connection of the cosmos to the earth. Our queen knows how to access this alchemy, as her mind is agile and simultaneously rooted to the earth. Joining the two together brings strength to her sovereignty.

Thank you for reading through to the end! As always, I encourage my subscribers to attempt this spread to explore their own inner Queen of Pentacles.

I love to chat in the comments:

• Anyone who attempts this spread and comments with a brief summary can claim a freebie 30 minute zoom reading with me.

• What does your inner Queen of Pentacles look like? What kind of earthly grounding does she offer?

• What does this spread tell you about yourself and how you express inner fire?

More:

What does it mean to really live? To embrace moments with all you have? To share this energy with others? The Queen of Wands arrives during the Hunter’s Moon - a time of change, reflection, and readiness. Incorporating the energy of Aries we find assertiveness, boldness, and independence. Facing action head-on with no hesitation. It is with beautiful synchronicity that our Queen of Wands shines this month. She carries Aries energy, teaching us true sovereign embodiment.

The Super Moon amplifies this energy - no excuses left for lingering procrastination. This is the time for direct action and bold expressions of your passion. What lights you up? What makes you feel alive? Do the thing . . .

As I prepared this post, the late great Jim Morrison of The Doors sang in my mind - Light My Fire. If any song embodies the energy of Aries and The Queen of Wands, this is the one. I chose this performance because it’s infamous for Jim’s intentional use of “Girl, we couldn’t get much higher”, despite being asked to substitute for a more television-approved word. Never one to be censored, Jim sang the lyrics anyway.

The Queen of Wands:

• Embodies passion, confidence and charisma.

• Leads with a desire for authenticity and fiery enthusiasm.

• Courageous with her actions in life, how she expresses herself, and a natural social butterfly.

• A unique soul who walks her own path.

• May struggle to bond with more passive partners, choosing exciting, bold experiences over softened love in life. She strives to embody this choice in all she does, even beyond romantic partnerships. Deep, intense bonds with others (romantic or otherwise) feed the fire in her soul.

I pulled the Queen of Wands out of the deck first, then removed the 3 remaining queens. I shuffled as normal. Please do it the same way if you attempt this spread. I chose not to use reversals, as I want the full energy of each card.

Throne, left side:

Card 1 - The Queen of Wands’ sovereign domain of fire:

• Five of Wands - this is the energy of conflict, which has the potential to escalate. It is not necessarily toxic conflict. It is the competition between multiple perspectives and expressions. The card shows 5 people trying to build a pentacle out of wands. How do they come together to complete the task? Each person has their own idea regarding how to complete the pentacle.

• Interaction with the Queen of Wands - The Queen knows how to navigate the Five of Wands. She leads with confidence to bring everything and everyone together to make it happen, her fiery nature moves mountains. Her shadow element can also be an instigator in conflicts when she pushes too hard. A true Queen balances between the two elements to embody sovereignty.

Throne, seat:

Card 2 - How to move into the sovereignty of the Queen of Wands:

• Princess (Page) of Wands - The Page has enthusiasm for adventure. She manifests her inner motivation towards self-growth. In all things, she is fearless, graceful, outgoing, energetic and demands attention.

• Interaction with the Queen of Wands - The Page is the inner child of the Queen. I like to think of this energy as her inner fire. When life’s demands become a burden, it is this inner fire that fuels the corrective action of the Queen to set things in motion, to rediscover what fueled her in the first place. Fierce independence is her way.

Throne, right side:

Card 3 - What the shadow says about the nature of the Queen of Wands:

• Two of Cups - Partnership and matters of the heart. Emotions rule, often involving love between two people. This is a true softening of the heart manifesting interdependent partnerships.

• Interaction with the Queen of Wands - I find this an interesting placement for the Two of Cups. This card is overwhelmingly positive in the non-reversed state, but when considering the nature of our Queen we find a manifestation of cognitive dissonance. Why do interdependent partnerships create this? The Queen of Wands is purpose-driven and independent, and this fire tends to burn through softer matters of the heart, making it a secondary priority. This shadow element creates overbearing partnerships with passive people unhealthy. Perhaps a sense of distrust with others, discouraging long-term commitment to partnerships.

Wand, bottom:

Card 4 - How to focus the Queen of Wands’ fire (interacts with card 5):

• Six of Pentacles - A sense of generosity to others, but the key here is the distinct element of giving to others who are not not on equal footing, reflecting the light side of our shadow element, the Two of Cups. Our Queen lifts that shadow element into the light by focusing on lifting others up and perhaps embracing a benefactor role.

Wand, top:

Card 5 - How to focus the Queen of Wands’ fire (interacts with card 4):

• Three of Cups - Living life to the fullest with joy and celebration is the motus operandi of the Queen of Wands. Forming deep bonds and intense sharing with others fuels her fire, which then sparks the energy of the action around her. This card is a water element, so one can easily imagine fire causing water to boil over. The elemental dignities interaction tells us that active fire overwhelms passive water, and so issues with personal excess limitations may persist.

Alchemical Interaction between Queen of Wands, Six of Pentacles and Three of Cups:

• Saccharum/Sugar - Taking this together, I pulled this alchemical card from Kim Krans’ deck to understand how the Queen of Wands focuses her fire. Sugar is the sacred elixir of life, inviting joy, laughter, and childlike wonder. Remember our Page of Wands?. She’s critical. This alchemical fire tells us that there is a balance to be struck with the force of fire and the emotional heart (both her own and others). There’s an old phrase which comes to mind, “You catch more flies with honey than with vinegar”. Regardless of the heat of the fire, the Queen knows when to send it and when to bring it down. Remembering generosity to help lift others up and living with joy to its fullest brings in much needed elements of grounded love amidst the fire.

What a lovely reading. Each card pulled was drawn organically, with only a few cards flipped to a non-reversed orientation, as reversals are not used in this Queen series. I noticed that we didn’t encounter major arcana, unlike the Queen of Cups spread. This is also the first Queen to show that embracing her inner child via the Page of the same element is that path to her sovereignty.

It is elementally 3 fire, 1 earth, and 2 water. Per elemental dignities guidelines:

• Wands (active) overpower cups (passive), which reflects our impressions of dominance of fire over matters of the heart. The Queen must remember that softening the heart is certainly possible. Sharing love and deepening bonding will not take away from her fire, but strengthen her connection to living a full life.

• Wands are neutral to pentacles. The Six of Pentacles reminds our Queen of Wands to remember charitable generosity towards others. The Queen has the ability to help others in need as a benefactor, and doing so she remains grounded.

Thank you for reading through to the end! As always, I encourage my subscribers to attempt this spread to explore their own inner Queen of Wands.

I love to chat in the comments:

• Anyone who attempts this spread and comments with a brief summary can claim a freebie 30 minute zoom reading with me.

• What does your inner Queen of Wands look like? What kind of fire does she radiate into your world?

• What does this spread tell you about yourself and how you express inner fire?

Did you read the first post in this series? Have a chat with the Queen of Cups.

If I am perfectly honest, this year has been one of the hardest I’ve experienced in recent memory. A true test of marriage, family dynamics and mental health challenges. I managed to keep up on writing and collaborating with my favorite substack friends, despite it all. I’m feeling good this second half of the year after the storm passed.

Intuitives, pagans and energy workers often use the term “transformation” in times of strife to reflect the changes we make when life shifts. A common phrase we use is “that which does not serve”. Tarot uses these concepts, as well. The Tower and Death reflect this most clearly, separated by degrees of change.

Death, sounding rather scary, simply indicates something ending, as in “something which does not serve”, and transforming/transitioning toward the next chapter in our lives.

The Tower represents a deeper level - it suggests a very sudden and intense change - a very clear ending forcing perspective shifts, different choices, and experiencing a “rock bottom” fall of sorts before transformation begins anew.

I am not pleased to see my September’s archetypal energy is The Tower, pulled at the beginning of the year. It strikes fear in my heart - life has been shifting enough, and I’ve had my fill. I’m toast. I am feeling a deep sense of transformation fatigue. Shadow work is critical to healing, but there’s also a time and place for it.

Any future change will hopefully be positive, leaving me lighter than air. I crave stability, which is already here, and a peaceful existence. I’d like to sit with the change I initiated for a while, basking in its healing glow as the Queen of Cups dictates.

The Queen of Cups from the Druid Craft Tarot is my absolute favorite. When giving readings, I always felt the energy as a full moon lunar eclipse - the thinning of our energetic fields to allow us a glimpse into the other side, speaking of vulnerability, emotional express, shadow and light.

I adore the serene calm of her sovereignty, embracing the emotional waters by gently stepping into the lake with perfect love and trust. This is the secret to our Queen - she sits on her throne with grace, maturity and healing. She nurtures, never denying what she needs over the sake of others. She does so without fear, for she knows that she can be both vulnerable and fierce. A sense of confidence and ease surrounds her. She is full with the depths of love.

What does she have to say about invoking sovereignty via vulnerability, emotional introspection, love and self-care?

Let’s explore her nature with a tarot spread I intuitively created, her words whispering in my ear the importance of sovereign love.

The Queen of Cups has much to say about the emotional, watery realm. It exists within our hearts, flowing to our inner and outer worlds.

Use a full deck for this spread. Before you shuffle, pull out The Moon and the Queen of Cups. Notice the spread formation; our Queen is under The Moon, sitting on her throne represented by the three flanking cards around her. I pulled the throne cards organically - they placed themselves in perfect alignment to the positions they hold in the spread.

What does the Queen of Cups have to say about each position in the throne to invoke the nature of her sovereignty?

Initial observations on color, card placements, symbols, and elemental representation:

• Symbology: The Moon! First, the Queen in lifting her cup to the moon, and The Moon doubles its placement above her. Second, the High Priestess also recognizes the placement of the Moon above her. Third, the Seven of Swords also displays the moon outside his window, in the shadow of night.

• Elements: each card represents water, and the Queen of Cups is double water. The Queens are always water, and our Queen resides in its natural minor arcana of cups. The Seven of Swords holds fast to his far corner, representing the discernment of the mind amidst the overflow of water around him.

• Flow of Pictorial Placements: Viewing the throne, from the bottom left, then bottom right, then middle right, then middle left - follow the path of the energy. The family is looking at both each other and to the right towards our Seven of Swords to assist in making wise choices. His discernment gives rise above him to the energetic power channeling through The High Priestess, who recognizes the wisdom for both the shadows and the light. The Queen of Swords harnesses The High Priestess’ power in devotion to watery Moon.

• Colors: Blue everywhere! The night sky appears outside the window of the Seven of Swords, then to outside with the High Priestess, Queen of Cups, and The Moon. Our perspective shift from indoors, trapped in one’s mind, to the outside tangible channeling of energy, to the liminal realms of The Moon.

Top Row:

• The Moon (pre-selected): Some people have a negative view of the moon, as it can be viewed a sense of feeling lost and confused. At the same time, it represents the depths of our unconscious and trusting one’s intuition amongst the unknown with perfect love and trust. This is a direct flow from the High Priestess through to the Queen of Cups. The Moon is the alchemical function between the two.

Middle Row:

• Queen of Cups (pre-selected): What sovereignty looks like, and how it speaks to the elements in her throne.

  • Please refer to the prior section for her summary.

• Throne Element (back), The High Priestess: What the shadow says about the nature of sovereignty.

  • I love the placement of The High Priestess here. She is the divine feminine representation of power. She channels the dark (below) and the light (above) - grounded to Gaia (below) and focused on the moon (above). As above, so below. The balance of forces.

Bottom Row:

• Throne Element (left base), Ten of Cups: What rules the Queen of Cup’s domain of the heart.

  • I don’t think I can think of a more perfect card. Our Queen of Cups is represented in the family, holding the child and surrounded by domestic bliss. What rules her heart? Love, community, support . . . its all here. Her heart is full.

• Throne Element (right base), Seven of Swords: How to move into the Queen of Cups archetype.

  • Among the flowing water elemental energy in this spread, I think this is the most important card of all. The Seven of Swords gives our Queen of Cups a sense of discernment. Through strife, through joy, and through the ocean of emotions in between. She intuitively knows what is right, and most importantly what is not right, for her emotional world. Making this distinction is the secret to her success.

How lovely was this tarot journey? It organically unfolded to reveal a beautiful queen archetype in our lives, one who recognizes the fierce and vulnerable force of love.

Thank you for reading through to the end! As always, I encourage my subscribers to attempt this spread to explore their own inner Queen of Cups.

I love to chat in the comments:

• Anyone who attempts this spread and comments with a brief summary can claim a freebie 30 minute zoom reading with me.

• What does your inner Queen of Cups look like? What kind of love does she radiate into the world?

• What does your moon tell you about yourself and how you express love?

I am obsessed with images of eyes. Just look at my substack logo! 👆

I would like to share a special spread I was given by my Guides in 2011. And perhaps this is when the obsession started.

During this era, I was the host for my Goddess Circle’s “Art & Tarot” evenings. Really fun! The art table (or floor) prepared with tools, paints, pencils, pastels and paper aligning to a chosen theme. Potluck-style food and drink for all!

While some were enjoying artistic shenanigans, others were slinging cards in the living room. We practiced with one another, and my Guides spoke frequently to channel messages for my closest friends and goddess community.

I learned to hone my claircognizance channeling, especially with my clairvoyant friend Serryn. One of these sessions revealed my primary Guide, whom we both share. He also helped establish a protective presence in my house full of spirits.

It was a unique time of mystical chaos flowing throughout the home. I enjoyed it immensely - a beautiful circle of goddess women from the Temple, sacred drumming, tarot, art . . . magical.

I still recall the moment I received this spread’s formation and name. Someone sat the couch next to me reading cards for another and I leaned back to chill out. A strong push of knowledge flooded my mind - what I understood to be a very old spread called “Eye of Horus” along with the layout.

I needed to intimately understand this spread - accessing divine vision in the formation of an eye! I seared it into my mind, even though I had no idea what the card positions meant or how it worked. I had no paper to record it otherwise.

My dearest friend Tracy (peacefully departed), a powerful Goddess in her own right, sat down with me soon after to figure out what it all meant. What we discovered is a powerful, versatile spread - it looks straightforward on the surface, but it’s anything but.

The beauty of this spread is it’s duality. Two perspectives. The mind versus the heart. Interaction between two people. A decision between two paths. Two of anything! The Lovers, Temperance and any “2” card would be the archetypal fit for the iris, card 1(Q).

The image below reflects our work that day:

• Cards 2 and 6 are turned on their side, and I mentally note if they come out reversed. Card 2’s top will be on the left, and card 6’s top will be on the right. It’s a perfect eyeball.

• Card 2 is the “outcome” for cards 3-4-5. This group is read as one story.

• Card 6 is the “outcome” for cards 7-8-9. This group is read as one story.

Here’s where the complexity come in, and it’s really cool:

• Cards 4 and 8 are the actual alchemical duality directly linked to card 1(Q). The two cards flanking each of those are supporting this energy.

• The Iris - a card may be chosen which represents the Querent’s issue/archetype/whatever is in question. Or, a card may alternatively be drawn from the deck as 1(Q) to reflect the issue/archetype/whatever is in question.

• Additionally, 1(Q) can be cross-diagonally linked to cards 3, 5, 7, 9 as contributing factors which elemementally interact with both 1(Q) and 4/8.

• Use reversals when they appear, use all majors, or use a full deck. You do you.

It’s amazing! I use it frequently for my clients, friends, and also myself. Feel free to save this image and use the template as your guide. It’s my high-quality, super 4K original cheat sheet from my own tarot book of shadows. High tech, right!? 😂

I would like to give a shoutout for her inspiration to dig this out of my archives. She’s been posting wonderful circular spreads lately and I’m here for it. She creates so much - books, a new tarot deck, and constant support for substack tarot practitioners.

If anyone would like an intuitive reading from me using this spread, please DM me. This is my tried and true, always deep and amazing spread for all things.

Love to you all!

Feed me some comments -

• Give the spread a try - be flexible and make it your own.

• Anyone who attempts this spread and posts a brief interpretation gets a freebie 30 minute reading with me via zoom.

• I have one freebie 30 minute reading paid forward from one of my subscribers. If you want to grab it, DM me.

In March 2025, during a potent ritual with Julie and our priestess group, I experienced something vastly different from my sisters. We were guided to intuitively create drawings based on short meditations focused on the theme of reclaiming our power and magic.

Instead of drawing, I received my first direct transmission from Source, the Horned Mother Goddess. What she revealed was profound - truths about patriarchal influences that have affected womenkind for thousands of years. And guidance on how to heal ourselves, our sisters, and our ancestors.

I then slipped into automatic writing led by Source. The phrasing and words were not in the style I would necessarily use, the choice of words potent. Through four questions, I wrote mostly with eyes closed, my writing slanted and hard to read, words flowing effortlessly.

A few weeks ago, as I woke up from sleep, my guides let me know it was time to share this. They gave me the format and specific wording to share.

The prose and tarot spread below are the result of an amazing collaboration with my sister Julie. Using the same deck remotely, we each drew cards in turn, guided purely by intuition. And the amazing part came when we both, at the same time, drew the exact same card, the Three of Swords.

Woman: I see you. Struggling to be seen.

We choose to be soft, or hard.

Adapting because our primal souls are devalued.

We yearn to opt out, but instead battle with fictional selves, keeping up appearances.

WE PANDER

Past choices, today’s choices, tomorrow’s choices.

Like a snake shedding its skin we peel away the layers, only to find more.

The ouroboros has something to say about the destruction of self, of feminine power misplaced.

We are taken hostage, twisted to match the ideas of others.

WE ARE TIRED

We carry on for others.

Caring for children, partners, chosen family.

Always, nurturing ourselves last.

Perhaps we didn’t choose this path - out of guilt, errors in judgement, or following expectations.

Or perhaps we chose to nurture our microcosm - choosing love above all else to birth our future.

Both paths chosen to seek safety in a dangerous world.

WE NURTURE

We need to listen, open our hearts.

The void calls us to reclaim our primal nature.

The source of all things yet unknown, whispering.

WE LISTEN

The sacred calls, regardless of the path you chose.

Gaia hums, she connects our roots.

Deeper and deeper.

Our ancient power lies inside, screaming to wake up.

Our primal spirit sets us free.

WE EMBODY

The ouroboros peels back our layers, exposing forgotten inner strength.

To reclaim ancient wisdom.

The moon calls us back. Grandmothers call us back.

Remember, sisters.

Hear the whispers from the void. Answer the call.

What will transmute in our souls?

THE SACRED CALLING

ROOTS // THE GREAT BELOW // WOMB

(Magician, Six of Pentacles, Queen of Cups)

Root deeply into the density of earth’s soil.
Be fed by the dark richness of the primordial Mother.
Your allies are her sacred elements,
tools of creation, earth, air, fire, and water.
woven together by the intricate threads of life.

The lemniscate tells of the sacred marriage.
The alchemy of spirit and body, sky and soil,
of the masculine spark and feminine womb.

Open to this creative power.
It’s innately yours to channel and use.
Not to possess or manipulate
but to allow it to flow through you.
Let your life be a living and breathing altar.
Let your touch make ordinary things holy.

But remember:
Power asks for reverence, not dominion.
Give freely, not with expectations
but with surrender and trust.
Root yourself within and as reciprocity.
Drink from the womb of the world,
give thanks to the land,
and grow into its steward.

You are an embodiment of the sacred feminine
nurturer, healer, lover, truth-teller.
As well as an expression of passion, desire and pleasure.
Let your intuition be your compass,
your dreams your guide.
You do not stand alone.
For in your rootedness, the mycelial web of all life sings
a silent symphony of belonging.

TRUNK // VESSEL // HEART // AXIS

(Hermit)

The trunk of the tree is the vessel,
your spine, your stance, your sacred Yes.
It holds the tension between solitude and expression,
inner calling and outer voice.

Be the axis mundi
a pillar between earth and sky.
Holding the lamp of your own becoming.

Like the Joshua Tree,
you grow by listening before moving.
Let your action be guided not by shoulds,
but by the quiet call within.
Not removed from the world,
but in communion with its soul.

Speak from stillness.
Act from knowing.
Be the embodied wisdom you seek.

Trust the spiral.
Life moves in circles, not lines.
There is sacred timing to all things.

BRANCHES // SKY WEAVER // CELESTIAL TENDRILS

(King of Wands, Three of Swords)

Your branches reach for the sky,
your fingers touch the cosmos.
You are the Sky Weaver
singing visions into being,
sparking inspiration with passion and purpose.

But your reach is not without ache.
For in every tapestry, there are threads of grief.
Dreams unraveled. Love lost.
Unexpected endings that mark the being.

Let grief and pain be part of your weaving.
Do not hide it, by pulling it inward.
Do not reject it, by pushing it away.
Feel it. Honor it.

Your tears are sacred waters.
Your wounds, portals of wisdom.
Your grief, a sacred teacher.
Your journey, the medicine you share.

Because even in heartbreak,
you are becoming.
Because even through sorrow,
you are weaving.

WOMAN I SEE YOU
Weaving your life.
Thread by thread.
Warp and weft as memory and becoming.
Connecting with other threads.

I see the way your hands move,
through sorrow and joy,
through silence and song,
stitching time into meaning

You spin gold from grief,
gather wisdom from the wind,
braid beauty into the bones of ordinary days.

Each choice a thread.
Each breath a prayer.
Each step a dance only you can know.

You are the loom and the weaver.
The story and the teller.
The mystery and the mystic.
The ancient rhythm pulsing through the threadbare and the whole.

Woman, I see you…
And the tapestry you are creating
is nothing less than sacred.

Walking the Liminal

Mystical and archetypal journeys about the thresholds we meet in life, cycles that we move through and nature's rhythms we dance with.

By Julie Schmidt

The Experimental Intuitive

Breaking the rules of traditional tarot techniques. Unique intuitive spreads. Healing and wholeness. Mediumship and intuitive musings. Tarot for creatives. Everything channeled by Spirit.

By Erica Phillips Graves 🔮

Lughnasadh is upon us, also commonly known as Lammas - different British Isles regional roots with similar themes of initiating the first harvest of the season. The wheel of the year turns, and summer fades slowly into fall. The Goddess is full with child, her fertility of the earth ready to manifest prosperity and abundance. We harvest the energetic intentions we’ve nourished all summer to sow the fruits of our labor. Manifesting happens now, whether we are ready for it or not.

I recently posted an essay on what I feel the Muse can tell us about inspiration and creativity. I am proud of this piece, and in my preparation two intuitive tarot spreads spilled from my brain. I had to cut one of them after the final edit due to length, so I am posting it here.

I am enchanted by the beautiful Muse. What better time to bring her out than at Lughnasadh?

The Muse visits me at the strangest moments - this one came to my as I was scribbling into my writing ideas notebook at my kiddo’s jiu jitsu class. Surrounded by kids doing arm bars and throw downs, I channeled this spread for your beautiful souls.

I initially envisioned this spread as a channel to access one’s Muse. What became abundantly clear was the central idea of birthing your own magic. The Empress is the ideal card using the Muse as our archetypal theme.

Is that magic your creative muse? Your own magical practice? Personal inner work? Totally up to you.

I am using a gorgeous deck - The Light Seers Tarot created by Chris-Ann. The images in these cards are beautiful and it is a pleasure to use them in my work. I like that the card stock is matte, instead of glossy, but they are also thicker than most. The stack is taller than most decks, so I tend to split the deck in halves to shuffle and recombine the smaller stacks

I offer two versions of this spread. Each unique, but the operations behind it are the same:

1. The Empress, focusing on the magic of the Muse

2. A major arcana card as the archetype, pulled at random

Before you begin, pull out the Empress/major arcana card, then shuffle the deck as you normally would. Since I want major energies present, I opted to NOT use reversals.

1 - The Empress (or major arcana card of your choice)

2 & 3 - How to unlock this magic (or archetype) - interaction between two cards, read as a pair

3-4-5 - Where to find it - internal/external/spirit

Let’s Begin!

What a gorgeous spread of cards. And I can gush about the Empress? The entire earth as her pregnant womb, the flow of elements surrounding her, the moon shining through the bright sunlight. She is Gaia, our mother earth. The creatrix birthing the world. Our creative projects, energy, love, family . . . whatever you birth is all here. This is where true magic begins.

Ace of Swords and Queen of Swords pairing, the keys to unlocking the Empress’ magic: These cards are a beautiful pairing. The minor arcana suite of Swords represents the element of Air - the mind. Masculine energy focusing on knowledge, direct action and power to create change in both the seen and unseen. The Aces are always a positive “Yes!”, and our Queen holds a regal and calm stability with grace. My intuition says that this pairing shows how we can move forward with ease and grace, grounding our sense of power and control in a masculine society. That despite the rough edges of our world, we can still create grounded, beautiful magic.

Four of Pentacles (internal), Ten of Cups (external), and Six of Swords (spirit): At first glance, the Four of Pentacles and Six of Swords seems to work against the Ten of Cups. I contend that it integrates beautifully to provide a full picture of the kind of work we need to do in order to heal and create. The Ten of Cups, in the center, is flanked by two cards not traditionally seen as “good”. We must recognize that life is bipolar with our light and shadow selves. We cannot be whole humans without recognizing both sides. Normally, the Four of Pentacles is the card of the miser, holding tightly to resources. However, we must integrate the Empress energy of this spread. Holding onto our resources until they are ready to be birthed is the role of this card, with the caveat that we should not hold so tightly that it never comes. The Six of Swords card represents our shadow work with forward movement. The only way we heal our shadow is through. The boat in this card is our vessel, guided to the shores safely despite the uncomfortable work we are doing. The Ten of Cups offers the integration of our light and shadow work into the birth of our magic - family, spirituality, creative projects, etc. These channels offer a path of integration essential to our well-being.

Lovely spread! Let me know your thoughts in the comments.

Row 1: The Star

Row 2: Three & Six of Pentacles as a pair

Row 3: Ace of Wands (internal), Temperance (external), and Justice (spirit)

I am offering a challenge to anyone willing to try this - how would you, as a reader, approach this spread’s interpretation with this context: the seeker is wanting to *reconnect* with the world and their own spirituality.

Anyone who tries this out and posts a brief interpretation in the comments will win a freebie 30 minute intuitive reading from me via zoom.

I really enjoyed exploring this spread. As I wrote, it unfolded intuitively like our flowing Empress.

• What kind of Empress energy are you manifesting right now? How’s it going?

• Did you try this spread? How did it go?

• I am currently seeking a few more people to collaborate future posts for September through December. Contact me privately if you are interested.

This past spring I had a conversation with the lovely , a published author who applies tarot to both self-reflection and creativity. I highly recommend her work. Becoming a member on substack in her little coven has been enjoyable, especially her weekly “Tarot Journaling Club” zoom sessions.

When her question about accessing one’s own muse was posed in a note, my mind up lit up. My guides stepped in with the answer like a thought bubbling up. I told her what I thought could be done to ask who or what our personal Muse could be - a candlelight meditation. We had a really nice conversation over zoom exchanging ideas about what the Muse could be, tarot, and our processes. Chelsey then posted a series of 12 “Mini-Muse” thoughts on the nature of creativity - an honest exploration of intuition, blocks, the creative process, and other related topics.

I am using her beautiful book, “Tarot For Creativity: A Guide For Igniting Your Creative Practice” for the Muse tarot spread analysis at the end of this post. It opened my understanding of the Muse’s role in creativity.

Candlelight Meditation

It’s simple to access, at least for an intuitive like myself. Anyone can do this! What came to me was the simple candle meditation, known as trataka. The version I envisioned was adapted slightly for accessing our guides and muse. If you’ve never attempted accessing them, perhaps this can help. Everyone has guides, but most don’t realize they are there.

1. Take out a journal or writing paper and a pen.

2. Light a single candle in a darkened room and stare at it as you relax your mind and body. Breathe in and out, deepening as you go. When ready, close your eyes and keep breathing.

3. When your mind and body feel completely relaxed, ask either in your mind or out loud, something like “Thank you for being with me in this meditation. I ask my guides and muse to speak to me, to give me guidance”.

4. From this point, remain quiet between asking your questions. Pay attention to any physical feelings, thoughts, ideas, names, or guidance you may receive. Take your time with this.

   • You may ask questions, like “Who are my guides?”, “What is your name?”, “What or who is my Muse?”, and most importantly, always ask “What do I need to know right now?”

5. Thank your guides and muse. Open your eyes.

6. If you have any thoughts after concluding your questions, write them down quickly and without too much thought. Let the pen flow across the page. This is called automatic writing. Even if you didn’t “hear” anything, sometimes flow comes from simply writing in a relaxed state. You’d be surprised what flows through writing.

7. When you are done, blow out the candle and read back whatever landed on the page.

This takes practice. I’ve also found that if I have difficulty visualizing or grounding to speak with my guides (such as stress, anxiety, or feeling distracted), simply breathing for a minute or two to drop in helps to channel whatever is blocked. It flows through my hand instead, which is usually easier for me.

In mediumship training, I learned how to really drop in and allow my hand to move and write on its own without my mind dictating, my eyes either completely or mostly closed. Its spooky seeing this happen. The most profound bits of guidance have come through using this method.

Let’s explore what the nature of the Muse could be!

Ancient Greece

Ah . . . the Muses. The greek goddesses of inspiration and creativity.

Nine beautiful, flowing enchantresses called upon by artists and philosophers of the time for the elusive divine spark:1

Calliope: The Muse of epic poetry and eloquence. She is considered the chief of the Muses.

Clio: The Muse of history. She is responsible for preserving memory and the knowledge that comes from discoveries and investigations of the past.

Erato: The Muse of lyric or erotic poetry. Her name means “lovely,” and she is said to make those who were guided by her desirable and worthy of love.

Euterpe: The Muse of music, specifically lyric poetry and flute playing. Euterpe is particularly associated with wind instruments.

Melpomene: The Muse of tragedy. She is often depicted with a tragic mask, leather boots, and a knife or stick in her hand.

Polyhymnia: The Muse of sacred poetry, hymns, and religious ceremonies. She is also associated with geometry, meditation, and agriculture.

Terpsichore: The Muse of dance and choral song. She is often depicted with a lyre.

Thalia: The Muse of comedy and idyllic poetry. She is often depicted with a comic mask and an ivy crown.

Urania: The Muse of astronomy and astrology. In some accounts, she is identified as the eldest of the Muses.

The number of muses and their names evolved over time, and these nine are a summation of the variations. The Muses were invoked in ancient greek culture as a divine source of inspiration and their understanding of the experience of flow: 2

Plato, Laws 719c (trans.Bury) (Greek philosopher C4th B.C.) :
"Athenian : There is, O lawgiver, an ancient saying--constantly repeated by ourselves and endorsed by everyone else--that whenever a poet is seated on the Mousai's (Muses') tripod, he is not in his senses, but resembles a fountain, which gives free course to the upward rush of water and, since his art consists in imitation, he is compelled often to contradict himself, when he creates characters of contradictory moods; and he knows not which of these contradictory utterances is true."

Plato, Phaedrus :
"Sokrates (Socrates) : The divine madness was subdivided into four kinds, prophetic, initiatory, poetic, erotic, having four gods presiding over them; the first was the inspiration of Apollon, the second that of Dionysos, the third that of the Mousai (Muses), the fourth that of Aphrodite and Eros (Love)."

Over the centuries, Muses shaped both the individual and wider culture simply by the concept of divine flow. They were responsible for great works of art, epic poetry, science, and much more. The mere idea that a divine goddess is the source of creative flow is perhaps far-fetched in today’s “modern” society.

The concept underneath it - flow - is not.

Polytheism is still evident in today’s practiced religions, and so calling upon a muse is really not as far-fetched as it would seem. Adoration of gods and goddesses are also very much alive, whether through paganism, regional beliefs, or organized religion. The Muses are no different in the mix of all this.

After all, humankind seeks to understand the world, and gods and goddess are a channel to understand its divine nature.

When we venerate something enough, it comes into our reality as a real thing. This absorbs into our culture as art, sciences, drama, a higher power, supernatural beings . . . it doesn’t matter if it is “real” or not. Its significance illustrates how we channel its influence through it.

Tapping Into Creative Flow - The Alpha State

Underneath the exploration of the creative muses lies the actual science of what our brains are doing while in the state of flow. A perfect example is Salvador Dalí, known to have creative naps to spark inspiration3:

Here’s how Dalí entered the dream-like state between sleep and wakefulness known as hypnagogia, which you can also use to trigger theta brainwaves:

Prep: Dalí ate lunch, then headed to his napping chair, placing a plate on the floor beside him.

Rest: As he rested, he held a key between his finger and thumb.

Drop: When he drifted off, he dropped the key and it jangled against the plate.

Insight: This jolted Dalí awake with visions, images, and creative solutions to his art.

What is happening, scientifically, with these creative naps? Brainwaves!

There are five levels of brainwaves, but we are concerned with only two when considering the state of creative flow: alpha (8-12 Hz) and theta (4-8 Hz).

Alpha brainwaves induce a state of relaxation and meditation, and we typically feel this when falling asleep and waking up. Meditation induces this as well. I get many ideas and insights when I am falling asleep. Keep a journal (on paper or a phone app) by your bedside to record your thoughts right away, it will most likely fade away.

Intuitive people trigger this rather quickly when channeling, I know I do. We call it “dropping in” or “grounding”. I have training in this, and I can feel an energetic flow in the back of my head down my neck and shoulders, and roots growing from my feet down into the earth.

Everyone experiences this differently. I do this with my mind similar to inducing a meditational state. I normally channel with my eyes closed (at least initially) to really drop in, however, I can stay connected through my intuitive session (tarot, automatic writing, mediumship) with my eyes open. I am practicing this one to improve my skills.

Theta brainwaves go deeper, and this is where intuition and daydreaming float into our consciousness:

A deeply relaxed mental state associated with deeper levels of the subconscious, and a path to creative intuition. Triggered by activities like deep meditation, REM sleep, visualization, lucid dreaming, and hypnosis4.

Creative naps tap into theta brainwaves - Dalí waking suddenly from this state by the dropping of a key illustrates how we open our subconscious into the waking state. It can lead to creative inspiration.

Want some assistance? Use isochronic tones and binaural beats - Brainwaves is my favorite (not an affiliate link). It is paid subscription, and I think it’s worth it. These are meant to be listened to using noise-cancelling headphones. Isochronic Tones are less like music and more vibrating tones, while binaural beats puts a sort of flowing “music” over the it.

There are sounds with specific Hz for anxiety, clairvoyance, headaches, sleep, “noise” (think white noise), focus, mental clarity, depression, and healing. It is simply tapping into the natural ability of our brains using frequencies of sound. YouTube has free music tracks to get you started.

What Does Tarot Say About Creativity and the Muses?

I decided to ask tarot what the nature of the Muse is, and the alchemical processes behind it. I used a deck, the Mind’s Eye Tarot by Olivia Rose. It is especially beautiful, and because eyeballs. I also integrate the use of Kim Krans’ The Wild Unknown Alchemy Deck. I want to know what lies beneath the surface of our creativity. Obviously, not everyone has this deck, so you can substitute with tarot or your own oracle.

I fully channeled this spread with no plan for how the cards would arrange themselves. I feel like the spread below was for the collective, but I also connected with it on a personal way.

Middle Row - Alchemy of creativity and inspiration

Masa Confusa/Chaos: Chaos, a state that sounds terrifying, is the seed of the Muse. In order to make sense of the jumbled nature of chaos, the void, we must relax and not fight it. We must wait, remain quiet, and observe what emerges from the chaotic void.

Conunctio/Conjunction: Two opposites merge to create something new. To find this alchemical trifecta acceptance, awareness, and devotion are your ingredients - activation creates presence and tension. Both exist at once in balance. Infinite potential.

Taken together, I see a powerful pairing - the dark chaos produces the creative material if we relax and allow it to emerge from void. Once is emerges, the balance of presence and tension (light and dark duality) offer an infinite interplay in a great balancing act to create something new.

Top & Bottom Row - Elements of creative interaction with the alchemy cards

Top Row

Four of Swords: Rest. Pause. Sounds like our exploration of brainwaves, right? In terms of creativity, when faced with a deadline or under stressful conditions . . . well, that won’t produce our best work. We need to allow our bodies, minds, and spirit needed recovery for flow.

Some thoughts from Chelsey5:

“For many busy, multi-hyphenate creatives, this is reality: You have to steal moments of sanctuary in between battle zones. It doesn’t always feel fully refreshing, and it’s tempting to skip right over that processing time and space to just power through to the end. But working that way is unsustainable; you need mental space, even if it’s in microdoses.”

King of Cups: Our King does not fear emotions - their depths within us can soar high or fall hard. He is the master navigator in the currents. Creatives channel emotional waves, whether they are rough seas or calm lakes. Some of the most beloved artists go into the depths of emotion, expressing its rawness in an honest and unapologetic way - Steady, stable, and shaking off challenges.

Some thoughts from Chelsey6:

“If you imagine your creative life as the stable, solid foundation that the King of Cups rests on, you can flip the script. You don’t need to protect your creativity from the chaos of the world. You can let your creativity protect you. You can let you creativity be your lighthouse on dark and story seas.”

Two of Pentacles: Ah, balance. The two pentacles in the air balance the forces around us. A storm is always coming, and so we prepare ourselves for the ups and downs. Pentacles is an earth element, so this refers us to the physical world - things like money, resources, and the physical tools we use in our acts of creativity. In this position, the scarcity of the “starving artist” comes to mind. How do we balance our art versus what we need for basic human living? I still haven’t figured out the whole living as an artist thing yet - so like so many, I have a day gig.

Some thoughts from Chelsey7:

“Creativity demands a lot of brain space, attention, and commitment. So, too, does surviving in this world. The Two of Pentacles offers validation for that struggle. The illustration of a juggler, passing two pentacles back and forth for eternity, symbolizes the perpetual balancing act of managing your creativity and the practicalities of your life.”

Bottom Row

Six of Wands: I love this card for creativity. We need to celebrate our projects. Pour a libation and toast both yours and others’ successes. Share it far and wide. It doesn’t matter if it’s “good”, it matters that time and energy flowed into that project and that it was birthed into the world.

Some thoughts from Chelsey8:

“Every creative impulse is a lottery win and every choice you make to honor those impulses is a victory. Create like you’ve already won the game, because you’re here, your creating. You are breathing life into the magic inside your head, and isn’t that the biggest win any one of us could hope for?”

Ace of Cups: Beautiful, flowing emotional floods of inspiration. Is there anything, besides The Empress (IMHO), which represents the Muse? In the spread, she is here fully formed. She is invoked. Speaking to our hearts and minds what we need at that perfect moment.

Some thoughts from Chelsey9:

“But here’s the truth that becomes evident through the eternal fountain in the Ace of Cups: The limit you’re afraid of doesn’t exist. Rejecting the idea that unless you’re in an idealized flow state you can’t really be creative, and instead embracing the truth that creativity is everywhere, whether it feels magical at first or not, is the secret to mastering creative abundance with the Ace of Cups.”

Eight of Wands: Pure movement. Aiming towards the goalposts. This is the active stage of flow - our Ace of Cups ultimately leads up to the Eight of Wands directing our energy where it needs to go to either bring it to strong start or a fantastic finish.

Some thoughts from Chelsey10:

“Beginnings and endings take a special kind of energy and alignment. Notice how all eight wands move through the air in harmony with each other. There’s synergy here, a sense of connection that helps kick things off on the right foot, and then brings things neatly to the ground when the end in sight”.

Where do I stand on the nature of the Muse? As an intuitive, I tap into a higher frequency as the source of my creative work. Sure, science shows us the brainwaves process behind it, but as humans we naturally tap into this “energy”. Intuitive or not, don’t we all feel the pull of the collective unconscious, the undercurrents of culture? Writers and artists, for example, are connected. It feels like the divine flow of inspiration flowing through our minds and hands.

No wonder the Ancient Greeks attributed goddesses known as Muses.

I will leave you with a final thought, found on Substack11:

By calling on the Muses, our ancestors started their works by humbling themselves at the feet of something greater and higher… inviting that Eternal Spirit to tell a story through them, not in service of themselves but in service to the Truth that needed a vessel to make itself manifest. Truth, here, is not limited to things literally true but includes things that express something about the nature and energies of reality.

Thank you for reading this post. It took a few months of research, pondering, notes, and conversations with intuitive writers to pull it together. I huge debt of gratitude to everyone who contributed their thoughts.

Please let me know in the comments your thoughts on the Muse!

• Where do you think inspiration and creativity come from?

• How do you channel this energy?

• Did you try the spread? How did it go?

11

The Lumenorean

On Invoking the Muse

[Greetings, friends, from Austin! Yesterday, I had the good fortune of, once again, co-hosting a quarterly men’s retreat outside of Austin. Following the creative spirit of Spring, we focused on two topics: (1) invoking the spirit of the Muses in helping us tell the story of our lives; and (2) how cultivating the archetypes helps us toward wholeness…

Read more

2 years ago · 3 likes · Noah Huisman

Hekate is an ancient Greek Goddess Alysia Moonrise and both work with. We answered her call this past year, and it has been an extraordinary journey. We hope our readers enjoy stories about the manifestation of Hekate in our lives.

At the end of this post, I offer a tarot spread channeled from my Guides in January 2024 for times when you are at a crossroads and need her guidance. I hope Hekate can offer the path needed - light a candle and use this when you feel called to ask for her blessings.

Prayer to Hekate, Mistress of Balance on the Spring Equinox

Hail Hekate Pasikratea, Queen of the Universe.
Hail Hekate Aglaos, Creator of the Sun.
Hail Hekate Erigeneia, Ruler of the Moon.
As creator of the Sun,
You shine down upon us,
Bringing life to all things,
As Ruler of the Moon,
You light up the darkest nights.
On this day when the day equals the night,
And the sun and moon are balanced,
I honor you as Divine Keeper of Balance.
On this day when the day equals the night,
May I understand the balance of my own life, 
The the darkness and the storms
Yield to the winds of change,
Ushering in a new season.
Hekate Enodia, my road
May be a difficult one,
But my faith that all will be born anew is strong.
I offer my gratitude, Blessed Hekate.
Hail Hekate Pasikratea, Queen of the Universe.
Hail Hekate Aglaos, Creator of the Sun.
Hail Hekate Erigeneia, Ruler of the Moon.

-Cyndi Brannen, "Keeping Her Keys: An Introduction to Hekate's Modern Witchcraft", p. 247

Erica:

During the Fall of 2023, I started mediumship workshops with the very talented Cindy Kaza. I learned so much in her courses, and my first hint that Hekate would make an appearance in my life was during a lesson. While learning automatic writing, where you let your hand write of its own accord, messages from guides or spirits direct the channeling of information. I was absolutely shocked that my hand really did write on its own while I had my eyes closed, even if it was indecipherable.

However, I was aware of what word my hand was writing. When I opened my eyes, I saw that I wrote, very poorly, Hekate. Hekate! She is a fierce Goddess I turn to in times of strife and emotional upheaval. She is an ancient, prominent Goddess among the pantheon of Greek deities in my spiritual work. This was not a casual message to receive from my Guide - to be called to work with Hekate . . . its serious business. I acknowledged the gift I received and filed this away in my mind, wondering what this meant for my life. I also received my first meeting with my spirit animal, a great wolf (turns out a “She”), and one of many “8” symbols I use with in my energy work today. The “8”, actually, is the infinity symbol. I also got that I would need to meet her at the crossroads. See how this works? We have to put together the clues.

In the Spring of 2024, I met Alysia here on Substack. I was going through a whirlwind of healing, resolving medical issues, and accelerated mediumship/energy work. She was also on her own journey of healing and, while different than mine, we bonded instantly in our mutual support. She is my Sister to the end. We have a synchronicity I simply cannot put into words. I live in the High Desert out here in California, near Joshua Tree. Alysia lives in San Diego - distance is an issue, but not impossible. It took until the Fall 2024 to find a day to meet halfway to finally see each other. Around 3 hours between us, so we decided to meet halfway at Pagan Pride in Long Beach on October 13th.

Just before Pagan Pride happened, I had a vision experience while trying to fall asleep, in the alpha state of almost asleep and very relaxed. Hekate was calling, loudly - it is time. I initially thought this would be a semi-fictional story idea, but the next morning I knew it was a call to a spirit journey into my unconscious. I called my hypnotherapist with a special request to help me navigate this journey safely - the appointment booked a few days after Pagan Pride.

I wrote about this journey in its entirety here:

I now have Hekate on my altar and she will be there for the foreseeable future. Hekate is a dominant energy at this time of my life, and she has given me so much strength. I am a devotee, and I trust that what she has to say will not be what I want to hear necessarily, but what I need to hear.

Alysia:

Hekate was first introduced to me last summer. I’d heard the name in passing a few times over the years but never paid much attention until I got an up-close and personal experience about who Hekate was—the Triple Goddess residing in the deep places of earth, fire, and alchemizing power. Erica was my first proper introduction to Hekate. She shared her stories and experiences where she directly connected with Hekate in what I describe as a “call-to-arms” kind of way. At first, I didn’t quite know who Hekate was or the powerful effect she brought with her Kali Ma energy. It was only through more conversation with Erica, hearing her stories with Hekate, as well as how much transformation Hekate called Erica into, that I realized the power this dark feminine goddess carried.

I became curious about this transformative, alchemical, fiery-depths energy that is Hekate and the ways that she may be working in my life, too, without me even realizing it. Erica and I were on very similar descent journeys that spiraled deep last summer for both of us and lasted through the entirety of winter. It’s uncanny how similar our journeys were and still are, honestly. When I noticed that Hekate was a powerful aspect of this descent for Erica, I became curious if Hekate was also calling me, only I couldn’t hear her… yet.

Pagan Pride Long Beach 2024

Pagan Pride is a day of lovely pagan vendors, public ritual, workshops, and a healthy variety of divinatory practitioners. We wandered the vender booths until I found the a lovely tarot reader who specialized in all things Egyptian, and my obsession with Ancient Egypt led that choice. We approached her and sat down to receive wonderful wisdom from a natural intuitive who had immense talent at what she does. Fresh from our readings and very happy with our day, we walked out to the open center of the event, a wide circle of space reserved for public ritual.

Erica

As we walked into the circle, deciding what to do next, we saw the Hekate ritual participants gathering. Here she was! Hekate! She was calling - and we obliged.

Joining the circle of fellow heathens, dozens of them at least, we took our place. It had been a long time since my last public or large ritual . . . years! For me, it was a deep remembrance of my calling, a calling I neglected over the years. I lost my place of worship years prior (a goddess temple) and moved out of the area, so I was needing this reconnection. As the priest and priestesses of our ritual led us into the opening, we turned to each watchtower - north, south, east, and west - and brought in the elements - earth, fire, air, and water. I remembered all the responses, the physical motion of ritual, the feeling of unity with each heathen here for the same reason - Hekate, the Triple Goddess.

As our ritual progresses, we split into two circles, inner and outer. Inner walking one way, out walking the other, in circles. Alysia and I are separated into different circles. But it is quite fitting, yes? I had a path I was walking distinctly different than hers. I was a seasoned heathen, and she was only just discovering her own path. We were given a chant to proclaim while we circled one another to build energy. I wish I could recall the entire chant, but I only remember it ending with “. . . Hekate!”.

As we circle and circle invoking Hekate at full volume, we heard the protests of two Christian “Bros” nearby on bullhorns, spouting all the usual nonsense - change our ways, come to Christ, we are going to hell . . . nothing new. This only fed our energy to counter their efforts with our magical workings - don’t fuck with Hekate.

The spewing of hate from the bullhorns seemed to falter at times as we invoked Hekate while running in our double circles. I met eyes with Alysia each time we passed one another, and with every other heathen. We all knew the power of what was happening. It was amazing. As we slowed down and settled back into our single circle, we all felt alive - Hekate was flowing. Her fierce protective shield around us all.

The “bullhorn bros” kept at it after we finished. We followed the ritual Priest to his vendor tent to get a ritual item. After we retrieved the key, we walked over to where our new bullhorn bro friends were causing havoc. It was getting heated. They were trying to persuade us to come to Christ, and all they got in return was “Christianity is WHY we became Pagan”. The larger men started to circle the bullhorn bros, and it got heated. We left to get lunch - the police were already called. By the time we returned, all was quiet again.

Alysia:

This curiosity was confirmed when Erica invited me to Pagan Pride last October and we attended a Hekate ritual. I shared a little about my experience back in October. If you want to read that, you can find it here:

Moonrise Mystic

Liberation of the Witch

Moonrise Mystic is the journey of a novelist connecting her love of story with her passion for the mystical into one moving, breathing prayer. It’s for those who love to read fantasy stories and intuitive writings that explore expanding through the initiations of life, death and rebirth, and transmuting shadow to light. Thank you for being here…

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2 years ago · 20 likes · 14 comments · Alysia Moonrise

But, there’s so much more to share now, months later, risen from the descent I was deep into at the time of Pagan Pride.

I want to remember it from start to end and write it as truthfully as I can from my perspective. Before I do, it’s important to share that this moment in the Hekate ritual at Pagan Pride was a very activating moment for me and triggered the witch wound that runs deep in my bones. It was the moment I realized just how deep this wound wove through me and how much I was afraid to speak my truth for fear of being attacked or persecuted. This wound shone like a blazing flame to my awareness as I chanted and circled fellow witches, priestesses, and healers—all the while terrified that I would be “found out” and that someone would come for me.

It began before the day even arrived. Erica checked the schedule and saw there would be a Hekate ritual. It was decided we had to make sure we were there for that because of how powerful Hekate had been in Erica’s life (and mine, unknowingly) for months. So, going into Pagan Pride, there was already an excited expectation for this ritual. As I remember it, we’d just finished at a booth where we’d each had a tarot reading. We were walking to the center of the grass area where all the events of the day were being held. It just happened that we entered this area right as the Hekate ritual was getting set up and people were gathering. We’d lost track of time and still somehow got there right on time. As if Hekate herself beckoned us to her, calling us into the darkness and the light all at once.

We stood in circle with dozens of others, the three leading the ritual at the circle’s center. It was one man and two women. They opened the circle, alternating, calling out to each of the directions. We all turned toward each direction as it was called, arms raised in honor of Mother Earth and Father Sky.

As the opening of circle completed and those leading it began to explain the ritual, I noticed it for the first time, though it must have been happening for a few minutes by that point. I say this because there was a subconscious awareness within me that heard someone’s voice carrying through the whole event and I’d assumed it was someone leading another ritual at Pagan Pride. I was wrong.

I looked at Erica. It felt to me like she’d just noticed, too. A megaphone in the background. I can’t tell you the words that caught my attention. I think I’ve blocked them out intentionally. What I can tell you is the feelings that rose in me at that moment.

The man’s words over the megaphone sank like a heavy weight in my gut. I turned to look at where it was coming from and saw three young men gathered on the outskirts of the booths. Clean-cut, “my shit don’t stink” young men. The heavy weight shifted to fury as I listened to their words, which were preaching the Bible and all the reasons we were wrong for what we were doing. I looked to Erica again as we both realized what we were witnessing, no living, in real-time—a modern-day witch hunt.

To my gratitude and satisfaction, the three leading our circle handled it with grace and called us together to raise our voices louder than the megaphone as we began to walk two circles in opposite directions while chanting a prayer to Hekate. I’ll never forget this moment because it was the most powerful moment of the entire event, and my entire life, where I felt the call of the witch urging me to come out of the broom closet.

Erica and I were in opposite circles. I can’t say accurately from my memory but for visual purposes, I’ll say I was in the inner circle going clockwise and she was in the outer circle going counterclockwise. As we raised our voices in unison and walked in circle, Erica and I kept passing by each other and each time felt like an old layer of patriarchal lies and fears shedding off my skin and bones.

Erica appeared to be loving this rebellion against the megaphone, as most in circle were. I felt terrified. But, she empowered me to stay in the light and keep walking and chanting because I knew I’d see her again, and again, as we circled around each other. At that moment, she was my safe place in unknown territory.

The voice on the megaphone started to waiver as these young men witnessed our ritual, surely certain we must be casting some evil spell over them. A crowd of Pagan Pride attendees began to swarm the men and instigate them. We kept our focus on the ritual—which just happened to begin at the exact time these men decided to show up. I look back on the synchronicity and also see Hekate at work, empowering each of us to stand strong in the name of the witch.

It was time for each person to walk into the circle and grab one of Hekate’s keys. Like beautiful fireflies, one person would break away from the circle, go to the center to get their key, then return to walk the circle.

By the end, everyone had a key except for a few because they’d run out. I was one of the few that didn’t get a key. So, we walked up to the man who had led the ritual and asked him if he had any more. This man was a breath of fresh air in contrast to the men on the megaphone. I remember distinctly acknowledging this for myself in the moment we went to speak to him. Where the men on the megaphone were righteous, forceful, and misled, the man who stood before us was grounded, patient, and wise. He had the strongest earth energy I’d ever felt in a man before up until that point. After the tightness I’d just breathed through in that ritual, his earth energy was a welcome, healing energy and one that I believe helped me come to terms with what I’d just experienced in my inner world.

So many, if not all, of the people who participated in that ritual, seemed eager and proud to shout at the top of their lungs to rise above the ill attempt of these young men. I could be wrong, but I felt like the only one who wanted to hide. But I didn’t. I stayed for all of it, got my key, and then Erica and I went to get lunch before the police arrived. (Oh right, the police were called.)

I learned a lot about myself that day. I learned that I was a witch. I learned that I’d been persecuted in other lifetimes for being a witch and that I still carried those wounds with me. I learned that nothing bad happened for being in ritual. I remembered that Erica was a fellow witch sister I’d journeyed through many lifetimes with before. That we had this experience together confirmed that. Her power in that situation helped me rise into my power and start being seen as the witch that I am. Five months later, I’ve come a long way. I feel embodied in my witchiness and proud of it. Even though there’s still more healing to be had, I feel so grateful for this experience with Erica, which I will never forget because it changed me at a cellular level.

It felt freeing to rise up in the face of adversity. It felt incredible to let my witch out.

Hekate’s Crossroads Tarot Spread

This spread was given to me in January 2025 by my Guides at a time when I needed it most. I find it really helpful if you need wisdom and a path forward.

This special post is timed for the super full moon tonight, which is in Pisces. We also have a partial lunar eclipse. and I have been talking over the last few months about the energy brewing in our lives, and it has a potent concentrated strength and momentum. This is a time for deepening our connections with the divine and embracing transformation. We both feel it, supporting one another through the waves of emotion and chaos to come in order to find acceptance of these changes. What follows are our takes on the transformations we are both respectively facing and how we have come to this more peaceful place with the Death card. We created a tarot spread for navigating these uncharted waters of the grieving what one has lost to move forward. So very Piscean!

Erica

This post has been brewing for months, and although I was not aware of its presence our dear friend Death made itself known in a big way. You see, I have been knocking at Death’s door for the last few months with my mediumship workshops, ancestral healing work, and grieving the loss of my best friend. All these processes were happening simultaneously. I embrace the changes Death brought me. We are not on opposite sides but sitting together drinking tea, commiserating on the changes brought into my life, what led up to it, and where I am going in the future.

One of the lovely gifts which came into my life, deep in the shadow of my best friend when at the sickest part of her cancer, was meeting @alysia here on Substack. We found each other by chance – we seemed to click right way. My best friend, even through her sickness, seemed very relieved that I have been branching out to make new connections. I think she felt the end was coming and knew I would be able to move forward after she departed. Alysia and I have been talking since and, despite the different transformations we are both going through, we are both having a cup of tea with Death.

Transformation, death’s gift, involves cutting cords to that which does not serve to make room for a new path forward. Sometimes that path feels we are like moving backward with the deep grieving we do for what we are losing. When deep transformation moves through our lives it seems to take us down. What is ending usually happens for a reason, and sometimes we don’t know what that reason is. Life is not always fair, and things come to an end. Sometimes there is no answer why we lose a loved one, experience the loss of a relationship, or experience traumatic stress from life circumstances. Don’t try to attach a reason if unsure, as it will only complicate your emotions. That’s a big ask, but acceptance goes a long way to healing.

Eventually, acceptance and forgiveness join your tea party with Death. The table is getting crowded, isn’t it? Once this happens, true transformation can begin. Sometimes, we need to forgive ourselves or others before we can move forward. This is where cutting the cords that bind us to the past can propel us to the future. This year, through a few different methodologies, I have cut many cords. You see, the trauma I carry from earlier in my life had me in a place where I could not see the future in a clear way. Old patterns repeated, ancestral generational trauma loomed large, and the hurt from life circumstances compounded.

I am open to talk with others about it if it feels right, but most of all, I don’t want anyone’s pity or condolences. You know the look you get when you reveal what hurts you to someone – Oh, poor Erica . . . It feels belittling to me, and it puts aside all the work I have done to move past it as not important – why not say wow, you have shown such strength? Recognition of the work done to overcome is more valuable to me than society’s pity responses of sorry and poor you. The most important thing to understand is that the feelings I have about my trauma are complicated - layers of grief, depression, anxiety led to events with dubious decision-making and questionable relationships. At the same time, I would not be the person I am today – that crazy rollercoaster toughened me up, for better or worse. I am very sensitive, so that outer shell of stone has saved me many times.

And yet, I need to shed that protective outer shell. It served me well, and it is time to release it. I don’t look back on my past with regret (well, maybe a few things), and I also had some great times. I am not throwing any of this away. But like my therapist frames it, it is time to put it into a photo album onto the shelf. I can visit with it whenever I want with today’s new perspective. I used a combination of hypnosis, energetic healing, therapy, mediumship studies, and ancestral healing. I have healed my primary wound (one of many, I am sure) to a really great place. I am feeling a new joy, but it is a dark joy. It is one that recognizes that the past is still there, but I am now looking forward to a new, wide-open path on a personal and spiritual level.

I cannot really give a roadmap for this process. Eventually, the dust settles, and we find ourselves at Hecate’s crossroads – choices to make, promises to keep, and a new road to travel. Crossing death’s threshold is a critical juncture – deep grieving gives way to the beginning of transformation, like a butterfly emerging from the chrysalis. It probably feels awkward, possibly uncomfortable. The biggest message I have received while on this threshold (from my guides and ancestor work) is to move forward, you have to find stillness before emerging anew. This is hard for me – I am admittedly an impatient person and then have problems with sticking with something. I need to commit and create new devotional practices. So, the threshold for death has tasked me to searching for this stillness as I drink tea at the table. To have an honest look at what I want the future to look like. And then stop. Close my eyes. Take a nap. Just be.

I invite you to have a chat with Death at his table, share some tea, and plan the coming transformation. It doesn’t happen overnight. Take a moment and rest before embarking on the next part, whatever that may be.

Alysia

Erica came into my life just before I was about to enter a transformation, sitting at the table to join in this tea party with Death. She has been a light and pillar, and our parallel experiences have been both healing and alchemizing for me. Our friendship has given me a holding on this journey that, may have otherwise been, quite unbearable to walk.

My transformation came in the shattering of two areas of my life—one I chose and one was chosen for me. The first aspect of my conversation with Death came when I decided the most important relationship in my life was no longer working for me. And, if I was quite honest with myself, it hadn’t been working for a very long time. It’s one of those situations where you give everything and get little to nothing in return. The decision to end this relationship was a shattering I wasn’t ready for, but that had to be done for my own well-being.

As I look back, only one month later, I can already see the weight lifting from my shoulders and my heart. I also feel the promise of a love that kindles on the horizon and holds everything I’ve ever wanted and know I deserve. So, while the pain was agonizing, and the shattering impossible, I see now why it was necessary.

The second aspect of my conversation with Death arrived as a complete shock and devastation. It was a situation I’d been making work, just barely, as a single mom of two girls. It was a situation I was unwilling to admit I could no longer hold together on my own. Until finally, one day, the Universe just decided for me—it’s done. Let it go. This isn’t yours to carry anymore. The rug was pulled from under me and my life literally shattered before my eyes in a matter of hours.

Arriving in the shadow of a tender heart that was still grieving the loss of love, this fall brought me to my knees in anger and devastation. What did I do to deserve this? It was the only thought I could grasp onto as I tried to hold myself together for my daughters and muster the courage to tell them their whole life was about to change, too.

Yet, here I am, just a couple of weeks after this moment, and I can already begin to feel the relief this shattering, this conversation with Death, has brought with it. It’s a calling home, a message of deep healing, and new beginnings. So, if you’re in the midst of a shattering, sitting down to a cup of tea with Death, you can be certain the transformation that awaits you is one of great potency and power calling you more into who you came here to be.

Tarot’s Death Card

The Death card in the tarot is likely feared by non-practitioners of tarot (not always), but it shouldn’t be. I think the movies and media have perpetuated this myth. Practitioners know that it is a powerful card of transformation and movement out of what no longer serves into the new path forward. Death’s table awaits, and it is up to us to answer the call – change comes whether we want it or not.

I have a book on my shelf I turn to often, “Jung and the Tarot: An Archetypal Journey” by Sally Nichols. It is one of the most complete analysis of each major arcana card I have ever read. Sally takes the works of Jung (a psychologist who paid close attention to the depth of tarot) and writes full academic chapters on each card. Within these chapters, she weaves the story of the person from The Fool card in between the references to mythology, psychological archetypes, and images of our ancient past. There are several passages I would like to share on the Death card from this book:

“The hero, having 'ripened' as the Hanged Man, now feels like he is being dismembered. Death pictures that moment when one feels ‘all in pieces’ – scattered – the old personality and ways so mutilated as to be almost unrecognizable. In the face of time’s whirlwind dance, we all stand dismayed, shattered, and scattered.” (p. 228)

“At the most superficial level we resist changes in our everyday lives – even changes we have consciously planned . . . when we at last achieve a desired transformation in our personal lives and conduct, we still mourn the old ways. We miss bad habits as well – those habits which came and felt at home with us and stayed. Parting is such sweet sorrow because we become attached to everything: people, animals, things. We don’t want to lose anything that we feel ‘belongs to us’ – even decaying teeth or falling hair. We are especially attached to the instinctual ways of our natural bodies.” (p. 228)

“But between the pruning away of the old and the maturation of the new lies a period of black mourning. In referencing to this stage of the journey to self-knowledge, the alchemists used the term mortificatio. Blessed are they that mourn. Whoever mourns the amputation of an unconscious reaction which has been a part of him since childhood, or whoever bemoans the loss of some rigid projection which has long served as support for a tottering ego, these may consider themselves blessed. They will ultimately be comforted with more valid insights and more enduring support.” (p. 229)

Death’s gift of transformation is not an easy one to take on, but the end result will be worth it in the end, for the blessing is reaching the new place of peace after shedding what is no longer serves. Acceptance comes to the table, to join our conversation with Death. In our tarot spread, I have made a special place in the middle, and invited Hecate to offer wisdom from her cauldron in this black mourning for what is lost.

Death’s Transformation Tarot Spread

Alysia and I worked on a new spread for Death’s transformation, and I have incorporated additional elements include Hecate’s crossroads in the center.

This hybrid spread takes some of the Hecate’s Crossroad spread and expands it.

1.        Life circumstances coming to pass

2.        The impact of these circumstances on you

3.        The impact of these circumstances on others

4.        Obstacles to acceptance of change

5.        Hecate’s cauldron of wisdom (guidance for acceptance)

6.        Tea with Death – wisdom needed for acceptance (use the Death card)

7.        Hecate’s wisdom – how to mourn the loss and move forward (cross this card over the Death card to be a bridge to the left side)

8.        Hecate’s Hound – how to get there

9.        Hecate’s Hound – where to focus efforts

10.  New life circumstance emerging for you

11.  New Obstacles

12.  New Opportunities

13.  Overall theme of this transformation (conclusion card)

I do hope this is helpful for those thinking about the changes sweeping through one’s life. If you can, perform this spread tonight for the Super Full Moon with a lit candle, for it is hard to see in the dark without a little bit of light.

Please read on to Part 2 and 3:

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Moonrise Mystic

Moonrise Mystic is the journey of a novelist connecting her love of story with her passion for the mystical into one moving, breathing prayer. It’s for those who love fantasy and real-life writings about ancient soul power and magic.

By Alysia Moonrise

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